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The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has raised fresh concerns over the rising number of Lassa fever infections, confirming 15 new cases and five deaths in Week 14 of 2025, spanning March 31 to April 6.
According to the agency, the total number of confirmed cases has now reached 674 out of 4,025 suspected infections reported across 18 states and 93 local government areas. The virus has claimed 127 lives so far, pushing the Case Fatality Rate (CFR) to 18.8%, slightly above last year’s figure of 18.5%.
The NCDC says the outbreak continues to be most severe in Ondo, Bauchi, and Edo states, which together account for 71% of all confirmed infections. Ondo tops the list with 30%, followed by Bauchi at 25%, and Edo at 16%.
In response to the escalating situation, the NCDC has activated a multi-sectoral Incident Management System (IMS) to coordinate efforts across various levels. It has also deployed emergency response teams to the hardest-hit states and supplied health facilities with vital materials including personal protective equipment (PPEs) and antiviral drugs.
The agency is urging Nigerians to stay vigilant by maintaining proper environmental hygiene, staying away from rodents, and seeking immediate medical care if symptoms like fever, headaches, or unexplained bleeding arise.
Lassa fever, a deadly viral hemorrhagic illness, is primarily spread through contact with infected rodents and remains a seasonal health threat—especially during Nigeria’s dry season.
Despite ongoing public awareness campaigns, the disease continues to expose serious challenges in the nation’s healthcare system, including surveillance gaps and limited preparedness.