NCDC launches readiness plan to combat seasonal Lassa fever surge

The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has launched an Accelerated Readiness Plan to prepare for a seasonal surge in Lassa fever. Director-General Dr. Jide Idris announced the initiative in Abuja, noting that while the disease occurs year-round, transmission typically peaks during the dry season between November and April.

The plan follows an After Action Review of the 2026 Lassa fever response. The review identified critical gaps, including delays in patients seeking medical care, instances of self-treatment, infections among healthcare workers, and inadequate state-level ownership of response efforts. It also highlighted a discrepancy between reported healthcare capacity and actual functionality, noting that equipment is ineffective without trained personnel and necessary consumables.

The NCDC aims to strengthen the entire response chain nationwide, focusing on prevention, early detection, diagnosis, referral, and treatment to ensure resources are functional when needed.