Lassa Fever: 268 Deaths Recorded In Nigeria As Weekly Cases Drop To Three
For families across Nigeria, Lassa fever remains a deadly threat, particularly to young adults, who account for the largest share of confirmed infections, as the disease has claimed 268 lives this year.
The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) reported that confirmed cases fell sharply from 13 in epidemiological week 39 to three in week 40, covering 28 September to 4 October 2026. The latest cases were recorded in Bauchi and Benue states.
However, the cumulative death toll has risen to 268 among 1,138 confirmed cases, with a case fatality rate of 23.6 per cent, higher than the 18.6 per cent recorded during the same period in 2025.
According to the NCDC’s latest situation report, 24 states have recorded confirmed infections across 119 local government areas, with 88 per cent of cases concentrated in Ondo, Bauchi, Taraba, Edo and Benue states.
People aged 21 to 30 remain the most affected age group. No new healthcare worker infection was reported during week 40.
The agency identified late presentation at health facilities, the high cost of treatment, poor environmental sanitation and low public awareness as continuing challenges in controlling the disease.
It urged state governments to strengthen year-round community education and advised healthcare workers to maintain a high index of suspicion, ensure prompt referral and follow infection prevention and control procedures.
Residents are also encouraged to maintain clean surroundings and store food properly to limit contact with rodents, which can transmit Lassa fever.
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