Lassa Fever Spreads To 9 States As Death Toll Rises – NCDC
As Nigeria enters the peak of the Lassa fever season, new data from the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) shows a steady spread of the virus across more states, with rising fatalities raising fresh public health concerns.
According to the NCDC’s situation reports for epidemiological weeks 1 to 3 of 2026, confirmed cases rose from 21 in week one to 39 by week three.
Over the same period, the number of affected states expanded from three to nine, including Ondo, Bauchi, Edo, Taraba, Plateau, Ebonyi, Benue and Nasarawa.
By week three, the country had recorded 39 confirmed cases and 17 deaths, representing a case fatality rate (CFR) of 18.1 per cent.
While slightly lower than the same period in 2025, health authorities say the widening geographical spread is a cause for concern.
The reports show that Ondo, Taraba, Bauchi and Edo states account for the majority of confirmed infections, while young adults aged 21 to 30 remain the most affected age group.
The NCDC also confirmed that four healthcare workers were infected in week three, underscoring the risks facing frontline personnel.
The agency has urged Nigerians to remain vigilant, practise good hygiene, and report symptoms early.
It also encouraged the public to use its toll-free line, 6232, for information and reporting.
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