Connect with us

Nigeria News

NCDC reports 143 Lassa fever cases, 22 deaths across 7 states

Published

on

The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has confirmed 143 cases of Lassa fever out of 484 suspected cases between December 30, 2024, and January 12, 2025, across seven states and 32 local government areas.

The outbreak has resulted in 22 deaths, yielding a Case Fatality Rate (CFR) of 15.4%. A breakdown of the deaths shows Ondo (6), Edo (5), Bauchi (2), Taraba (6), Ebonyi (2), and Gombe (1) states affected.

Lassa fever is a viral hemorrhagic illness caused by the Lassa virus, primarily transmitted through contact with food or household items contaminated by the urine or feces of infected Mastomys rats. The disease is endemic in parts of West Africa, including Nigeria, where it remains a significant health concern.

According to the NCDC, the number of confirmed cases rose from 54 to 89 in the second week of January 2025. Ondo, Edo, and Bauchi states accounted for 77% of all cases, with the highest incidence among individuals aged 21–30 years.

The NCDC also noted a decrease in the number of suspected cases compared to the same period in 2024. One healthcare worker was also affected. In response, the National Lassa Fever Incident Management System has been activated to coordinate the response.

JOIN OUR GROUP
%d bloggers like this: