Lassa Fever Cases Persist In Nigeria As Death Toll Climbs
Nigeria continues its battle against Lassa fever, with the latest situation report from the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) revealing that the death toll has reached 152 as of epidemiological week 28 (7–13 July).
Despite a slight dip in total confirmed cases compared to the same period in 2024, this year’s outbreak remains alarming. So far, 811 confirmed cases have been reported across 21 states and 105 local government areas, with a case fatality rate of 18.7% a worrying rise from last year’s 17.3%.
In the latest week under review, 11 new cases were confirmed in Ondo, Edo, and Benue States, with one death recorded.
The bulk of the confirmed cases—89%—were reported from just five states: Ondo, Bauchi, Edo, Taraba, and Ebonyi.
The age group most affected remains young adults aged 21 to 30, and males slightly outnumber females among the confirmed cases.
Encouragingly, no healthcare worker was infected in week 28, a testament to the increased emphasis on training and infection prevention efforts.
The NCDC, along with national and international partners, is intensifying response activities.
These include the deployment of rapid response teams, active case searches, public sensitisation campaigns, and the distribution of medical supplies.
However, challenges such as late presentation at hospitals, poor health-seeking behaviour, and low awareness in high-risk communities persist.
While authorities continue to ramp up efforts, the public is urged to remain vigilant, maintain good hygiene, and seek prompt medical attention if symptoms arise.
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