The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has recorded 1,154 confirmed cases of Lassa fever out of 9,492 suspected cases, with 190 deaths reported so far in 2024.
Speaking at a press briefing in Abuja, the NCDC Director General, Dr. Jide Idris, highlighted a sharp increase in cases over the past four weeks, signaling the severity of the outbreak. To address the situation, the NCDC has activated the Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) for Lassa fever, with a risk assessment categorizing the outbreak as high.
Lassa fever, a viral haemorrhagic illness caused by the Lassa virus, is endemic in Nigeria and transmitted primarily through contact with infected rodents, particularly the multimammate rat. Outbreaks peak between October and May due to increased human exposure to rodents during the dry season.
This year, six states account for 89% of confirmed cases:
– **Ondo** (29.7%)
– **Edo** (22.7%)
– **Bauchi** (17.9%)
– **Taraba** (8.8%)
– **Benue** (5.6%)
– **Ebonyi** (4%).
Ten local government areas, including Owo, Etsako West, and Jalingo, represent 59% of confirmed cases.
Dr. Idris emphasized the importance of preparedness, including:
– Distribution of medical supplies, infection control materials, and diagnostic tools to states.
– Expansion of Lassa fever testing laboratories from nine to 13, with plans for further upgrades.
– Rodent control exercises in high-burden states like Edo, Ondo, and Benue.
He advised the public to maintain clean environments, store food properly, avoid drying food on the ground, and practice good hygiene. Healthcare workers were urged to adhere to infection prevention protocols and maintain vigilance for febrile illnesses indicative of Lassa fever.
Dr. Idris underscored the need for coordinated efforts to reduce cases and fatalities, urging collaboration among stakeholders to strengthen surveillance and response mechanisms.
The NCDC remains committed to mitigating the outbreak’s impact, protecting public health, and ensuring timely interventions to safeguard communities across Nigeria.
