The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has revealed that Lassa fever has killed 138 people so far in 2025, with confirmed cases now reported in 18 states across the country.
In its latest situation report published on its website, the NCDC said the country has recorded 717 confirmed cases as of Epidemiological Week 18, with a case fatality rate of 19.3%— a rise from 18.0% in the same period last year.
The disease, which is transmitted through contact with infected rats or human bodily fluids, has seen fresh cases emerge in Ondo, Edo, Bauchi, and Benue this week alone.
Three states remain the worst-hit:
-Ondo (30%)
-Bauchi (25%)
-Taraba (16%)
These account for over 70% of all reported cases nationwide. The most affected age group is 21 to 30 years, and more men than women have been infected.
Although no healthcare workers were infected in the current week, 22 have been affected since the start of the year.
The NCDC has activated its emergency response system, deploying 10 Rapid Response Teams and coordinating efforts with global partners including the World Health Organisation (WHO), Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF), and Georgetown University.
Efforts include contact tracing, awareness campaigns, and distribution of critical medical supplies such as PPEs, Ribavirin, body bags, and disinfectants.
However, challenges persist. The agency cited late presentation of symptoms, poor health-seeking behaviour, and low awareness in high-burden communities, worsened by poor sanitation.
The NCDC urges the public to:
– Keep homes clean and rodent-free
– Report symptoms like fever, vomiting, and bleeding early
-Avoid contact with rats and infected individuals
Nigerians are also advised to follow NCDC guidelines and call the toll-free line 6232 for information or emergencies.
Lassa fever is a viral hemorrhagic disease that can spread through contact with infected rat urine, faeces, or human fluids. It causes fever, sore throat, muscle pain, and in severe cases, internal and external bleeding.
