LunagisthubLassa Fever Outbreak in Nigeria: 21 States Affected
The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has reported a significant outbreak of Lassa fever across 21 states in Nigeria, resulting in 168 deaths. The states most affected are Ondo, Edo, Taraba, and Bauchi, accounting for 67% of all confirmed cases.
Key Statistics
-Total Suspected Cases: 4,543
Confirmed Cases: 897
Case Fatality Rate: 18.7%
States Affected: 21
Local Government Areas Affected: 106
Some of the states affected by the outbreak include:
High-Burden States: Ondo, Edo, Taraba, and Bauchi
Other Affected States:Ebonyi, Benue, Kogi, Gombe, Plateau, Kaduna, Nasarawa, Enugu, Delta, Anambra, Rivers, Borno, Oyo, Ogun, the Federal Capital Territory, and Lagos
To prevent the spread of Lassa fever, the NCDC recommends:
Proper Food Storage: storing food securely to prevent rodent infestation. Environmental Hygiene: maintaining a clean environment to reduce the risk of transmission
Avoiding Self-Medication: seeking medical attention promptly if symptoms occur
Community Sensitisation:educating communities on preventive practices and promoting awareness about the disease
The NCDC is coordinating response efforts, including:
Enhancing Surveillance:improving disease surveillance to detect cases early
Expanding Diagnostic Capacity: increasing access to diagnostic testing
Supporting Treatment Centres:providing support to treatment centres in high-burden states
The NCDC has warned that without stronger community awareness and control measures, the disease will remain a persistent public health challenge .
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