LASSA FEVER CLAIMS 142 LIVES AS NCDC CONFIRMS 747 CASES, ACROSS 18 STATES
13-06-25
By Sadiq Aminu The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has confirmed 747 cases of Lassa fever with 142 related deaths recorded across 18 states.
Its latest epidemiological report for Week 22 (May 26–June1) of 2025 released on Thursday reveals a Case Fatality Rate (CFR) of 19.0%, slightly higher than the 18.1% recorded during the same period in 2024.
According to the report, new infections continue to emerge, with Ondo, Bauchi, Edo, and Nasarawa States reporting fresh cases in the past week.
Meanwhile, 91% of all confirmed cases originated from just five states: Ondo (31%), Bauchi (25%), Edo (16%), Taraba (16%), and Ebonyi (3%).
NCDC Response Measures
In response to the ongoing outbreak, the NCDC has intensified nationwide containment efforts through its multi-partner, multi-sectoral Incident Management System (IMS).
The agency confirmed the deployment of 10 National Rapid Response Teams to high-burden states to provide on-site technical support and coordination.
Other key interventions include: Supply of essential medical commodities such as Personal Protective Equipment (PPEs), Ribavirin (injectable and tablets), body bags, hand sanitizers, thermometers, and other infection prevention materials to affected states and treatment centres as well as Launch of the Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) e-learning platform, powered by DRASA and funded by the Global Fund, to build IPC capacity among healthcare providers nationwide.
“We have supported State IPC structures, the Orange Network, and treatment centres to enforce standard precautions to reduce Hospital-Acquired Infections (HAIs) in high-burden LGAs and states,” the report reads.
The Centre urged state governments, healthcare providers, and community leaders to remain vigilant, promptly report suspected cases, and sustain efforts to prevent the spread of the virus.
The NCDC also urged Nigerians, especially those in high-risk areas, to keep their homes and surroundings rodent-free, store food properly in sealed containers and maintain personal and environmental hygiene.
The centre advised that any suspected Lassa fever symptoms should be reported immediately to the nearest healthcare facility.