Nigeria's Lassa Fever Deaths Reach 268 with Rising Fatality Rate

As of epidemiological week 40 in 2026, Nigeria has recorded 268 deaths from Lassa fever, with 1,138 confirmed cases across 24 states and 119 Local Government Areas, according to the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC). The case fatality rate has risen to 23.6%, up from 18.6% during the same period in 2025.

Between weeks one and 40 of 2026, there were 8,414 suspected cases, compared to 8,041 in the previous year. In week 40 alone, three new confirmed cases were reported in Bauchi and Benue states, with one death.

The majority of confirmed cases (88%) were concentrated in five states: Ondo (36%), Bauchi (23%), Taraba (12%), Edo (11%), and Benue (6%). The predominant age group affected was 21 to 30 years.

The NCDC reported that 54 healthcare workers have been affected in 2026. The agency is addressing the high fatality rate through enhanced surveillance, laboratory testing, and training in collaboration with state governments and partners.