Nigeria Lassa Fever Outbreak Reaches 922 Cases and 221 Deaths

The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) reported a cumulative total of 922 confirmed Lassa fever cases and 221 deaths as of Epidemiological Week 26, representing a case‑fatality rate of about 24 %. New confirmed cases rose from 13 in Week 24 to 22 in Week 25 and 31 in Week 26. The five states of Bauchi, Ondo, Taraba, Benue and Edo accounted for roughly 85 % of all cases.

Young adults aged 21‑30 were the most affected group. Healthcare workers were infected in Week 24 and again in Week 26. NCDC continued national surveillance, laboratory testing, case management and risk communication, urging the public to keep environments rodent‑proof, practice good hygiene, avoid contact with rats and seek prompt medical attention for symptoms such as fever, weakness, headache or bleeding.