The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention, NCDC, has warned states to “strengthen year-round community engagement” as Lassa fever infections climb again.
Its latest report for epidemiological week 31 shows nine new cases in Ondo, Edo, and Taraba triple the figure from the week before.
Confirmed cases now stand at 836 across 21 states and 105 local government areas. The case fatality rate has hit 18.7 per cent, surpassing the 17.3 per cent seen in the same period last year. Deaths so far in 2025: 156.
Just five states account for 90 per cent of infections, Ondo (33 per cent), Bauchi (23 per cent), Edo (17 per cent), Taraba (14 per cent), and Ebonyi (3 per cent).
The 21–30 age group remains most affected, with men outnumbering women, no new healthcare worker infections were logged this week.
The NCDC says the fight is being undermined by late presentation of patients, poor health-seeking behaviour due to high treatment costs, and dirty environments in high-burden areas.
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To contain the spread, the agency has deployed rapid response teams, expanded training and fellowship programmes, and embedded Lassa fever alerts in wider risk communication drives.
Supplies of ribavirin, protective equipment, and thermometers have been sent to affected states.
Healthcare workers are urged to maintain a “high suspicion for Lassa fever” and make “timely referrals,” while residents are advised to improve hygiene and avoid rodents, the main source of infection.
Lassa fever is a viral haemorrhagic illness spread mainly through contact with the urine or faeces of infected rats. It can also pass between people via body fluids, contaminated items, or unsterilised medical tools.
Doctors warn that symptoms include fever, sore throat, headache, vomiting, muscle pain, and, in severe cases, bleeding from body openings.