Lassa Fever Surge Poses Risk to Nigerian Health Workers

The Nigerian Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) reported a concerning surge in Lassa fever cases, with 15 healthcare workers across multiple states contracting the disease and two deaths recorded in the first five weeks of the year. A total of 31 people have been affected, with 754 suspected cases reported across 33 local government areas in nine states.

NCDC Director General Dr. Jide Idri warned of the persistent vulnerability of frontline health workers and stressed the importance of strict compliance with infection prevention and control (IPC) measures.

He highlighted the need for functional isolation units and clear referral pathways for suspected cases. The disease, caused by the Lassa virus, is endemic in Nigeria and several West African countries.

Symptoms often mimic common illnesses, complicating early detection. Health workers, including doctors, nurses, and support staff, face heightened risks due to inadequate IPC measures, raising concerns about secondary transmission and the overall outbreak response capacity.