The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention, NCDC, says the country has continued to record a steady decline in the number of confirmed Lassa fever cases, with only three deaths reported recently.
An overall record of the disease burden according to the health agency, stood at 4,253 suspected cases, 696 confirmed cases, 132 deaths and an overall Case fatality rate CFR of 19.0 %.
But as of epidemiological week 16, ending 20th April 2025, the NCDC reported that cumulatively, Lassa cases reduced from 41 infections to only 10 recorded cases.
The latest data was disclosed at a press briefing convened by the Agency to provide an update on the current national situation of three major diseases, Lassa fever, Cerebrospinal Meningitis, CSM, Mpox and Cholera.
The Director General of the NCDC, Dr Jide Idris noted that despite results from ongoing surveillance, treatment, and community engagements, the risk of the disease remained high in endemic areas.
”;While the outbreak remains serious, national and sub-national coordination, improved preparedness are turning the tide. The response will be sustained until full containment is achieved,”; he said.
Also warning of the high risk of Cholera as the rainy season approaches, the NCDC boss said already 1,307 suspected cases have been reported across 30 states and 98 Local Government Areas, LGAs, with 34 associated deaths, resulting in a case fatality rate, CFR, of 2.6%.
He said to reduce the risk of cholera, Nigerians must ensure that water is boiled and stored in a clean and covered container before drinking.
Idris also tasked state governments to activate their Emergency Preparedness Plans to address support surveillance efforts, check potential flooding and displacement events, ensure mosquito control and elimination of breeding sites and establish Cholera and Lassa treatment centers.
