NCDC Launches Plan to Combat Seasonal Lassa Fever Surge

The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has initiated an Accelerated Readiness Plan to mitigate a seasonal surge in Lassa fever, as announced by Director-General Dr Jide Idris on Wednesday in Abuja. The plan aims to enhance prevention, early detection, diagnosis, and treatment before the peak transmission period, which typically occurs from November to April.

The initiative follows an After Action Review of the 2026 Lassa fever response, revealing challenges such as delays in seeking care, self-treatment, and inadequate state ownership. Dr Idris emphasized the need to strengthen the entire response chain, ensuring that health facilities are equipped and functional.

The nationwide plan will prioritize areas with the highest risk and burden of Lassa fever, focusing on early case detection, prompt reporting, and environmental sanitation to reduce rodent exposure. The NCDC will collaborate with environmental health and agricultural authorities to address risks associated with rodents, while encouraging early medical care and strengthening healthcare providers' capacity to recognize and report suspected cases.