NCDC Reports Increased Lassa Fever Fatality Rate in 2026

The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) reported a significant increase in the Lassa fever fatality rate for 2026, recording 214 deaths and a case fatality rate (CFR) of 25%, compared to 18.9% during the same period in 2025. The Lassa fever situational report for epidemiological week 23 indicated that the number of newly confirmed cases remained unchanged from the previous week, with infections reported in Edo, Ondo, Bauchi, and Ebonyi states.

A total of 23 states and 109 local government areas have recorded at least one confirmed case this year, underscoring the disease's continued spread across Nigeria. The NCDC noted that the age group most affected is between 21 and 30 years, although cases have also been recorded among individuals aged up to 93 years.

Despite ongoing response activities, including infection prevention and control training, the report identified several challenges, such as late case presentations and low public awareness, which hinder effective disease control.