Kehinde Fajobi
The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has reported 1,154 confirmed Lassa fever cases and 190 deaths out of 9,492 suspected cases in 2024.
Speaking at a press briefing in Abuja on Monday, the NCDC Director-General, Jide Idris, revealed that the Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) for Lassa fever had been activated, with the disease risk categorised as high.
“Lassa fever remains endemic in Nigeria, posing a significant public health risk across all states. Outbreaks typically occur during the dry season when human exposure to rodents is highest,” Idris stated.
The disease, caused by the Lassa virus, spreads through contact with infected rodents’ droppings or contaminated surfaces, food, or water. Human-to-human transmission can also occur through contact with the bodily fluids of an infected person.
Idris noted that six states accounted for 89% of confirmed cases: Ondo (29.7%), Edo (22.7%), Bauchi (17.9%), Taraba (8.8%), Benue (5.6%), and Ebonyi (4%). Ten local government areas (LGAs) contributed nearly 59% of confirmed cases.
“There has been an alarming increase in Lassa fever cases and deaths in the last four weeks, signalling the outbreak’s severity,” he said, adding that the case fatality rate remained high at over 13%.
The NCDC attributed the rise in suspected cases to enhanced surveillance and emphasized the need for targeted interventions in endemic states.
Idris highlighted several measures taken by the NCDC, including distributing medical supplies, expanding diagnostic laboratories from nine to 13, and conducting rodent control exercises in high-burden states.
“The EOC was activated to ensure seamless coordination of Lassa fever control and management activities using a One Health approach,” he said.
The public was urged to maintain cleanliness, safely store food, avoid bush burning, and practice personal hygiene.
Healthcare workers were also advised to remain vigilant and adhere to infection prevention and control protocols.
“Healthcare providers should report all suspected cases to local Disease Surveillance and Notification Officers to ensure prompt diagnosis and public health actions,” Idris added.
The NCDC reaffirmed its commitment to reducing Lassa fever cases and fatalities through proactive measures and collaboration with stakeholders.