The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has reported that 145 people have died from Lassa fever so far in 2025, with the fatality rate rising to 18.6%.
This figure, released in the agency’s latest report covering Epidemiological Week 25, represents an increase from the 17.6% recorded during the same period last year.
According to the NCDC, a total of 5,943 suspected cases were reported across 20 states and 101 Local Government Areas (LGAs), with 781 confirmed cases between weeks 1 and 25 of the year.
In the most recent reporting week (week 25), 10 new confirmed cases were recorded in Ondo and Edo States, showing a slight increase from eight cases the previous week.
The agency noted that the majority of confirmed cases in 2025 have come from five states: Ondo (31%), Bauchi (24%), Edo (17%), Taraba (16%), and Ebonyi (3%). Young adults between the ages of 21 and 30 were the most affected group, with males slightly more impacted than females.
NCDC pointed out that late hospital visits, high treatment costs, and poor health-seeking behaviour are key reasons for the rising number of deaths. However, no new cases were recorded among health workers during the week.
Lassa fever is a viral illness spread mainly through contact with food or household items contaminated by rodent urine or faeces. Early treatment can save lives, and health experts are urging Nigerians to seek care promptly and take preventive measures, especially in high-risk areas.
