The Kano State Centre for Disease Control has warned residents about the onset of the 2025/2026 Lassa Fever season in Nigeria. This alert follows a national warning from the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention, which notes that the risk of Lassa Fever transmission is typically high between October and May each year.
Lassa Fever is a viral disease that can be spread through contact with contaminated food, water, or household items, especially those infected with the urine or feces of infected rats. Person‑to‑person transmission can also occur through contact with the blood or body fluids of infected individuals. Dr. Muhammad Adamu Abbas, Director General of the KNCDC, says the environment in Kano State is particularly vulnerable to outbreaks.
To mitigate the risk of transmission, residents are advised to maintain proper hygiene, keep their surroundings clean, and store food in tightly covered containers to prevent rodent infestations. Individuals experiencing persistent fever or related symptoms should seek medical attention immediately. Common symptoms include fever that does not respond to regular treatment, sore throat, chest or stomach pain, vomiting, diarrhoea, and unexplained bleeding. Health experts emphasize that early detection and treatment significantly improve survival chances.
In preparation for potential cases, the Kano State Government has activated its Public Health Emergency Operations Centre for Lassa Fever response. The government has stocked essential supplies, including personal protective equipment and antiviral drugs, and has begun training health workers on case management and infection prevention. Community awareness campaigns and rodent‑control exercises are underway in high‑risk areas as part of the state’s “One Health” response, which involves collaboration with environmental and agricultural sectors.
The KNCDC urges residents to report any suspected cases promptly rather than attempting self‑treatment. Dr. Abbas reassures the public that Lassa Fever is preventable and treatable if detected early, emphasizing the importance of collective efforts to keep Kano State free from the disease this season. Residents are encouraged to take an active role in preventing the spread of the disease by maintaining good hygiene practices and seeking medical attention promptly. Continued vigilance and cooperation among residents, healthcare workers, and government agencies will be crucial in preventing outbreaks and protecting public health as the season progresses.
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