NCDC Reports 259 Lassa Fever Deaths in Nigeria for 2026

The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) reported that in 2026, Nigeria has recorded 1,086 confirmed cases of Lassa fever, resulting in 259 deaths across 24 states and 118 local government areas (LGAs). In its situation report for week 36 (August 31 to September 6), the NCDC noted that 12 new confirmed cases were identified in Ondo, Edo, and Kogi states.

The cumulative figures indicated a case fatality rate (CFR) of 23.9%, which is higher than the 18.6% CFR recorded during the same period in 2025. The majority of confirmed cases (87%) were reported in Bauchi, Ondo, Taraba, Benue, and Edo states, with Ondo and Bauchi accounting for 89 and 36 deaths, respectively.

The report also highlighted that no new healthcare workers were infected during this period, and the predominant age group affected was individuals aged between 21 and 30 years.