The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has confirmed that 152 people have died from Lassa fever in the first 28 weeks of 2025, signalling a worrying increase in the case fatality rate (CFR) to 18.7%, compared to 17.3% recorded in the same period last year.
According to its latest situation report released Monday via its official website, the NCDC said a total of 811 confirmed cases and over 6,520 suspected infections have been documented so far across 21 states and 105 local government areas.
The states most affected include Ondo, Bauchi, Edo, Taraba, and Ebonyi, with the agency warning that while the number of confirmed cases is slightly lower than in 2024, the rising death rate is cause for serious concern.
“We are witnessing a slight decline in the total number of confirmed cases compared to 2024, but the fatality rate has increased,” the agency said.
NCDC attributed the worsening mortality rate to late presentation, poor health-seeking behaviour, and limited access to early treatment.
In epidemiological week 28 alone, 11 new cases and one death were recorded, with reports from Ondo, Edo, and Benue states. Notably, no healthcare workers were affected that week.
The most impacted age group remains 21–30 years, with an almost equal distribution between male and female cases.
In response to the persistent outbreak, the NCDC has ramped up emergency interventions. Ten National Rapid Response Teams have been deployed to affected states under a One Health approach. Also, INTEGRATE clinical trials are underway in Ondo State, aimed at improving patient management.
Further, healthcare personnel in Bauchi, Ebonyi, and Benue states have undergone specialised training to enhance clinical response efforts.
