The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has reported that over the past six months, 202 lives have been lost due to Lassa fever and cholera outbreaks. The agency’s data shows 6,704 suspected Lassa fever cases with 162 deaths across 125 local government areas in 28 states, and 40 deaths from the latest cholera outbreak.
The NCDC disclosed these figures in its Lassa fever situation report published on its website on Friday. Lassa fever is an acute viral hemorrhagic illness caused by the Lassa virus, a member of the arenavirus family.
The report revealed a case fatality rate (CFR) of 17.8% for Lassa fever in 2024, slightly higher than the 17.1% CFR for the same period in 2023. Ondo, Edo, and Bauchi states reported 65% of all confirmed cases, with Ondo alone accounting for 25%, Edo 22%, and Bauchi 18%. The predominant age group affected is 21-30 years, with an equal male-to-female ratio.
Dr. Jide Idris, Director General of the NCDC, noted a shortage of vaccines and mentioned that Nigeria has placed orders for more cholera vaccines from donor agencies, though the delivery date is still unknown. Dr. Idris emphasized the need for vaccines and other preventive measures to curb the spread of cholera, an acute diarrheal infection.
The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) has also been active in response efforts. In a post on its social media handle, the NMA stated that it is working with national health authorities and international organizations to contain the outbreaks. The NMA has deployed rapid response teams across affected states, implementing monitoring and containment strategies, and disseminating information about cholera prevention, symptoms, transmission, precautions, and treatment options.
“In light of these efforts, the NMA urges individuals, families, and communities to remain calm and adhere to public health measures, including practicing good hygiene, ensuring access to safe drinking water, and taking individuals with symptoms of diarrhea and vomiting to the nearest hospital for prompt attention,” the association stated.
**Experts Raise Alarm Over Recurrent Outbreaks**
Professor Adesegun Fatusi, Vice Chancellor of the University of Medical Sciences, Ondo State, expressed concern over the recurrent outbreaks of cholera and Lassa fever, attributing them to low levels of hygiene and health education.
“This shows that the level of hygiene and health education of our people is low, because these are preventable conditions. We know what causes cholera, but if people don’t observe simple hygienic practices or lack knowledge of the disease, we will continue to see outbreaks. The same applies to Lassa fever. These are preventable diseases, and we should be very worried because they are killing our people,” Professor Fatusi said.
He urged both the government and individuals to take adequate actions to curb the spread of these diseases.
Dr. Oladipo Kolawole, a medical virologist and immunologist at Adeleke University, Ede, Osun State, also highlighted the serious concern posed by the simultaneous outbreaks of cholera and Lassa fever. He noted that cholera is highly contagious and can be fatal if not treated promptly, and that the dual outbreaks place a heavy burden on already under-resourced healthcare facilities.
“The capacity to respond effectively to both diseases might be compromised, leading to higher mortality rates. Multiple outbreaks can lead to widespread fear, misinformation, and panic within communities. Without addressing the root causes, such as inadequate water and sanitation infrastructure and poor healthcare systems, outbreaks of these diseases may recur,” Dr. Kolawole explained.
He emphasized the need for strengthened surveillance systems and public education on prevention measures for both cholera and Lassa fever. Dr. Kolawole also warned that climate change could exacerbate the situation, with increased rainfall and flooding potentially leading to more widespread cholera outbreaks and greater human-rodent contact driving Lassa fever transmission.
