NCDC Confirms 172 Deaths in Lassa Fever Outbreak Across 21 States

The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) has confirmed 172 deaths from the Lassa fever outbreak in 21 states, signaling a worrying increase in fatalities compared to the previous year. Ondo, Bauchi, Edo, Taraba, and Ebonyi are the worst-hit states, with Ondo alone responsible for 35% of confirmed cases.

The NCDC attributes the high fatality rate to late presentation of cases, poor health-seeking behavior, and poor environmental sanitation. Efforts are underway to contain the outbreak, including deploying rapid response teams and conducting integrated clinical trials.