Seven additional cases of Lassa fever have been identified by the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) in Edo, Bauchi, and Kogi States, as reported on the official website. These cases were recorded between July 22 and July 28.
Lassa fever is a viral hemorrhagic illness that can be transmitted to humans through contact with infected rodents or contaminated items. Symptoms may include fever, headache, sore throat, weakness, cough, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, muscle pains, chest pain, and in severe cases, bleeding from various body openings.
According to the NCDC, four cases were reported in Edo, two in Bauchi, and one in Kogi, with no fatalities during the period. There were 163 deaths in 2024, resulting in a Case Fatality Rate (CFR) of 17.0%, slightly lower than the previous year.
In 2024, the majority of confirmed cases were from Ondo, Edo, and Bauchi, while 25 states reported cases. A total of 28 states noted at least one case across 125 local government areas.
Challenges in combating Lassa fever include delayed presentation of cases, high treatment costs affecting health-seeking behavior, and inadequate sanitation in high-risk areas. Poor community awareness also contributes to the spread of the disease.
The age group most affected during the reporting period was 31 to 40, with no reported infections among healthcare workers. The NCDC emphasized the need for enhanced surveillance and prevention measures nationwide.
The public is encouraged to follow safety guidelines, promptly report symptoms to local health authorities, and cooperate with contact tracing efforts to contain the disease.
The NCDC pledged to closely monitor the situation, collaborate with state health agencies, and continue working with the National Lassa Fever Multi-partner, Multi-sectoral Technical Working Group (TWG) for a unified response.