ABUJA — Nigeria has recorded 822 confirmed cases of Lassa fever and 155 deaths in 2025, raising the case fatality rate (CFR) to 18.9%, according to the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC).
The figure marks a significant rise from the 17.1% CFR recorded during the same period in 2024.
The latest situation report by the NCDC, released on Wednesday and covering Epidemiological Week 29 (July 14–20), revealed 120 suspected cases, with 11 confirmed in Ondo and Edo states, and three new fatalities.
The CFR for that week alone stood at 27.3%, underscoring the urgency for early detection and prompt medical intervention.
The NCDC attributed the high death rate to late hospital presentation, poor health-seeking behaviour, and inadequate sanitation in high-burden communities. So far, at least 21 states and 105 local government areas have reported one or more confirmed cases in 2025.
Five states—Ondo, Bauchi, Edo, Taraba, and Ebonyi account for 89% of all confirmed cases, with Ondo alone contributing 32%.
The most affected demographic is young adults aged 21–30, with slightly more male cases than female, at a ratio of 1:0.8.
Despite the toll, the agency said it had intensified response efforts, deploying 10 Rapid Response Teams to affected states and distributing essential medical supplies including Ribavirin, personal protective equipment, and hand sanitisers. Community awareness campaigns have also been scaled up in hotspot areas.
The NCDC confirmed that no new healthcare worker infections were recorded during the reporting week, though 23 have been infected this year.
It also said preparations were in place for the rollout of the 2025–2029 Lassa Fever Strategic Plan.
With the rainy season still active, increasing rodent activity and virus transmission, Nigerians have been urged to maintain environmental hygiene and seek prompt medical attention when experiencing symptoms such as fever, vomiting, and bleeding.
The agency warned against misinformation and called for sustained media and community engagement, urging the public to follow official advisories and contact its toll-free line 6232 for inquiries.
Lassa fever is a viral haemorrhagic illness transmitted mainly through contact with urine or faeces of infected rats, but it can also spread through bodily fluids and contaminated medical equipment.
