Nigeria has recorded 176 deaths from Lassa fever so far in 2025, according to the latest situation report from the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC).
The update, covering Epidemiological Week 43, revealed that the Case Fatality Rate (CFR) has risen to 18.4 per cent, compared to 16.6 per cent during the same period in 2024, a worrying increase in the nation’s battle against the viral disease.
Lassa fever, classified by the World Health Organisation (WHO) as an acute viral haemorrhagic illness, is primarily transmitted through contact with food or household items contaminated by the urine or faeces of infected Mastomys rats.
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The disease remains endemic across parts of West Africa, including Nigeria.
According to the NCDC, a total of 955 confirmed cases have been reported across 21 states and 102 local government areas since the beginning of the year. The agency disclosed that Ondo, Edo, Bauchi, and Taraba States accounted for about 88 per cent of all confirmed infections, underscoring their status as the nation’s high-risk zones.
The Week 43 update further indicated that new confirmed cases rose from nine in the previous week to 11, all reported in Ondo State, one of the epicentres of infection.
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Public health experts have expressed concern over the rising trend, urging intensified awareness campaigns, early diagnosis, and improved hygiene practices to curb further spread. The NCDC, in its advisory, reiterated its commitment to scaling up surveillance and response activities nationwide.
It also warned that the onset of the dry season, when Lassa fever cases typically rise, calls for heightened community vigilance and proactive measures by both state governments and healthcare institutions.
Esther Ososanya is an investigative journalist with Pinnacle Daily, reporting across health, business, environment, metro, Fct and crime. Known for her bold, empathetic storytelling, she uncovers hidden truths, challenges broken systems, and gives voice to overlooked Nigerians. Her work drives national conversations and demands accountability one powerful story at a time.
