Mohamed Garba
The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) has announced a concerning rise in Lassa fever cases, with 506 confirmed infections and 95 deaths recorded nationwide as of March 5, 2025.
Lassa fever, an acute viral hemorrhagic illness endemic to West Africa, is primarily transmitted to humans through contact with food or household items contaminated by rodent urine or feces. Human-to-human transmission can also occur, particularly in healthcare settings lacking adequate infection control measures.
The current outbreak has affected multiple states, with the highest number of cases reported in Edo, Ondo, and Ebonyi. Healthcare authorities are intensifying efforts to contain the spread, including public awareness campaigns, distribution of medical supplies, and training for healthcare workers on early detection and management of the disease.
Dr. Chikwe Ihekweazu, Director-General of the NCDC, emphasized the importance of early presentation to healthcare facilities, stating, “Early treatment improves the chances of survival. We urge anyone experiencing symptoms such as fever, headache, sore throat, and general body weakness to seek medical attention promptly.”
Preventive measures are crucial in curbing the outbreak. The NCDC advises the public to maintain proper hygiene, store food in rodent-proof containers, and avoid bush burning, which can drive rodents into residential areas.
The World Health Organization (WHO) is collaborating with Nigerian health authorities to support response efforts, including surveillance, laboratory testing, and case management. The WHO has also reiterated its commitment to strengthening health systems to better respond to such outbreaks.
This surge in Lassa fever cases underscores the need for continuous vigilance and community engagement in implementing preventive measures to control the spread of the disease.