Alarming Surge in Lassa Fever Cases in Nigeria as Death Toll Rises to 143 in 2025

Nigeria Faces Renewed Lassa Fever Threat as Death Toll Reaches 143

As the rainy season intensifies across Nigeria, health authorities are raising red flags over a sharp increase in Lassa fever infections. According to the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), 11 new confirmed cases were reported in week 23 of 2025, bringing the total death toll to 143 this year alone.
The report, released as part of the NCDC’s weekly epidemiological update, indicates a troubling trend: a higher case fatality rate (CFR) than previous years. This year’s CFR stands at 18.9%, compared to 17.8% recorded at the same time in 2024.
The disease, which has become endemic in Nigeria, continues to pose serious threats to both the general population and frontline healthcare workers. In the most recent reporting week, one healthcare worker was newly infected, highlighting ongoing occupational exposure and the urgent need for strengthened protection protocols.

The latest data shows that the 11 newly confirmed cases came from four states:

• Ondo
• Edo
• Bauchi
• Taraba

These states, alongside Ebonyi, remain the epicenters of the Lassa fever outbreak, contributing to a staggering 90% of total cases. Of all the states, Ondo State alone accounts for 31% of confirmed infections, underscoring the need for targeted interventions in high-risk zones.
So far in 2025, 18 states have reported at least one confirmed case of Lassa fever, spanning 96 Local Government Areas (LGAs). The concentration of cases in specific areas raises questions about environmental sanitation, rodent control, and healthcare access in these communities.

The NCDC report also sheds light on the demographics of those affected. The most impacted age group falls between 21 and 30 years, with a male-to-female ratio of 1:0.8. This suggests that young adults, possibly due to occupational exposure and social mobility, are more vulnerable to the disease.
While overall Lassa fever cases have declined slightly compared to the same period in 2024, the persistently high death toll is a major concern. The infection of yet another healthcare worker during the latest week also underscores the occupational risk and the necessity of adequate protective measures.

In response to the rising numbers, the NCDC has activated a multi-partner Incident Management System (IMS). This mechanism brings together both local and international stakeholders to coordinate a swift and strategic response to the outbreak.
According to the NCDC, current efforts include:

• Enhanced disease surveillance, particularly in hotspot LGAs
• Training of clinicians in affected and at-risk regions
• Distribution of personal protective equipment (PPE)
• Provision of Ribavirin: a critical antiviral medication for Lassa fever
• Risk communication and community engagement

These efforts are supported by organizations such as the World Health Organization (WHO), especially in states like Bauchi, Benue, and Ebonyi, where healthcare worker training has been intensified.

Challenges Hampering the Fight Against Lassa Fever
Despite the government’s ongoing efforts, several significant challenges continue to undermine progress:
1. Late Presentation of Cases
One of the most pressing issues is the late presentation of symptoms by patients. According to the Director-General of the NCDC, Dr. Jide Idris, this delay contributes heavily to the rising CFR.

“Late presentation remains a significant challenge, contributing to the high mortality rate. We urge Nigerians to seek medical attention immediately if they notice any symptoms,” said Dr. Idris.

2. Poor Health-Seeking Behaviour
In many high-burden communities, individuals still rely on self-medication or traditional remedies before visiting a health facility, often when it's too late.

3. Limited Access to Healthcare
For many Nigerians, particularly those in rural areas, healthcare services remain distant, under-resourced, or unaffordable.

4. Environmental Factors
Poor sanitation, rodent infestations, and lack of hygiene contribute significantly to the transmission of the Lassa virus. Community environments where food is improperly stored and waste is not properly managed create ideal breeding grounds for Mastomys rats, the primary vectors of the disease.

What You Need to Know About Lassa Fever
Lassa fever is an acute viral hemorrhagic illness caused by the Lassa virus, primarily transmitted through exposure to food or household items contaminated with rodent urine or feces. Human-to-human transmission can also occur, particularly in hospital settings.
Common Symptoms Include:

• Fever
• General body weakness
• Headache
• Sore throat
• Muscle and chest pain
• Vomiting
• Diarrhoea
• Bleeding from body openings in severe cases

NCDC’s Public Health Advisory
The NCDC has continued to issue public health advisories, urging Nigerians to take the following precautionary steps:

• Maintain good hygiene: Wash hands regularly with soap and water.
• Proper food storage: Store grains and other foods in rodent-proof containers.
• Avoid contact with rodents: Prevent rats from entering homes and dispose of waste properly.
• Seek early medical care: If you experience symptoms of Lassa fever, visit the nearest healthcare center immediately.

Use protective equipment: Healthcare workers should use PPE consistently and follow infection prevention protocols. 5 Surprising Health Benefits of Taking a Short Walk After Meals

Community and International Support
In a bid to strengthen the response, the NCDC has partnered with various local, national, and international organizations. These partnerships aim to:

• Improve disease surveillance systems
• Support community-led sanitation efforts
• Provide logistical support to healthcare centers.
• Fund research and vaccine development

The government also calls on community leaders, NGOs, and civil society organizations to join hands in raising awareness, improving sanitation, and ensuring early reporting of symptoms.
While Nigeria has made strides in containing infectious diseases, the persistent threat of Lassa fever calls for sustained vigilance. A multipronged strategy involving public health education, early detection, environmental sanitation, and well-equipped healthcare systems is essential to turning the tide.
As the country battles this outbreak, the NCDC reassures Nigerians of its continued commitment to safeguarding public health through coordinated responses, policy updates, and stakeholder collaboration.
By working together, the government, healthcare workers, community members, and international partners, Nigeria can reduce the impact of Lassa fever and protect the lives of its citizens.

By PrimeLineInfo