Table of Contents
- New Cases of Lassa Fever
- Infection Report Overview
- Fatality Rate Analysis
- High-Burden States
- Concerns for the Future
The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has reported 11 new cases of Lassa fever and two related fatalities across four states within a single week.
According to the agency’s most recent situation report for Epidemiological Week 37, the new infections were identified in Ondo, Bauchi, Kogi, and Anambra States. These figures indicate a slight decrease from the 13 cases documented in the previous week.
The center has noted that from January through Week 37, a total of 7,673 suspected cases and 895 confirmed infections have been recorded across 21 states and 106 local government areas.
During the same timeframe, there have been 166 reported deaths, yielding a case fatality rate (CFR) of 18.5 percent, which marks an increase from the 16.9 percent recorded in 2024.
The report further indicates that 90 percent of all confirmed cases originated from five high-burden states: Ondo (33%), Bauchi (23%), Edo (18%), Taraba (13%), and Ebonyi (3%), while the remaining 10 percent were distributed across 16 other states.
Although the total number of suspected and confirmed cases in 2025 is lower than that of the same period in 2024, the NCDC has expressed concern regarding the rising fatality rate.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Lassa fever?
Lassa fever is an acute viral hemorrhagic illness caused by the Lassa virus, which is transmitted to humans through contact with food or household items contaminated with rodent urine or feces.
How is Lassa fever treated?
Treatment for Lassa fever primarily includes supportive care and the use of the antiviral drug ribavirin, which can be effective if administered early in the course of the illness.
What are the symptoms of Lassa fever?
Symptoms of Lassa fever can vary but often include fever, weakness, headaches, vomiting, and in severe cases, bleeding from the mouth, nose, or other body openings.
