Lassa Fever Outbreak in Nigeria Claims 145 Lives, Sparks Concern Over High Fatality Rate
A devastating outbreak of Lassa fever in Nigeria has resulted in 145 confirmed deaths, with the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) reporting 766 confirmed cases across 18 states in 2025. The latest situation report, released for epidemiological week 24, reveals a significant increase in the case fatality rate, which now stands at 18.9 percent, up from 17.6 percent during the same period in 2024.
The states of Ondo, Bauchi, Edo, Taraba, and Ebonyi have been the most affected, accounting for 91 percent of the confirmed cases. Ondo, in particular, has emerged as the epicentre of the outbreak, contributing 31 percent of the confirmed cases. Although there has been a decline in new confirmed cases, with only eight reported in the past week, down from 11 the previous week, health authorities remain concerned about the high fatality rate.
According to the NCDC, the high fatality rate is driven by late presentation of cases, poor health-seeking behaviour, and unsanitary living conditions in high-burden communities. To combat the outbreak, the agency has deployed Rapid Response Teams to 10 states, initiated risk communication and environmental sanitation campaigns, and provided training for health workers in high-risk areas. The NCDC has also de-escalated its Incident Management System to alert mode and integrated Lassa fever messages into wider disease awareness campaigns.
The public has been urged to take precautions to prevent the spread of the disease, including avoiding contact with rodents and seeking prompt medical care at designated treatment centres at the first sign of symptoms such as fever, headache, or bleeding. Nigerians are also advised to maintain hygiene, report symptoms early, and avoid contact with rodents and their secretions. The NCDC has encouraged the public to follow its advisories and utilise the toll-free line 6232 for inquiries.
Lassa fever is a viral hemorrhagic disease transmitted primarily through contact with the urine or faeces of infected rats. It can also spread from person to person through bodily fluids, contaminated objects, or infected medical equipment. Symptoms include fever, sore throat, headache, vomiting, muscle pain, and in severe cases, bleeding from the body openings.
As the outbreak continues to affect communities across Nigeria, it is essential for individuals to take proactive steps to protect themselves and their loved ones. By staying informed, taking precautions, and seeking medical care promptly, Nigerians can help reduce the spread of Lassa fever and mitigate its devastating impact. The NCDC’s efforts to contain the outbreak and raise awareness about the disease are crucial in preventing further loss of life and promoting public health in Nigeria.
