Nigeria reports 229 deaths as Lassa fever cases climb to 963

Nigeria's Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) recorded 963 laboratory‑confirmed Lassa fever infections and 229 deaths in epidemiological week 28 of 2026, a case‑fatality rate of 23.8%. The weekly figures rose from 31 cases in week 26 to 14 in week 27 and then to 25 in week 28, showing continued transmission.

Confirmed cases in week 28 were reported in Ondo, Bauchi, Edo, Kogi and Cross River states, while the disease remains heavily concentrated in Bauchi, Ondo, Taraba, Benue and Edo, together accounting for about 86% of all infections. At least one case was recorded in 23 states and the outbreak now covers 114 local government areas, up from 113 the previous week. Young adults aged 21‑30 represent the most affected age group. One healthcare worker tested positive in week 28 after none were infected the week before.

The NCDC urged intensified disease surveillance, prompt detection and treatment, strict infection‑prevention and control measures, and sustained public‑awareness campaigns to curb transmission and reduce fatalities.