Lassa Fever: NCDC Confirms 663 cases, 167 Deaths Recorded Nationwide

By Micheal Chukwuebuka

The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention has reported a rise in the fatality rate of Lassa fever, with 663 confirmed cases and 167 deaths recorded across the country so far in 2026.

According to its latest situation report for epidemiological week 13, covering March 23 to 29, the agency noted a decline in new confirmed cases to 26, down from 51 cases recorded in the previous week.

However, the case fatality rate has increased to 25.2 percent, compared to 18.5 percent within the same period in 2025.

The report further indicates that the outbreak has spread to 22 states and 93 local government areas, with Bauchi, Ondo, Taraba, Edo, and Benue states accounting for about 85 percent of confirmed cases nationwide.

While no new infections were recorded among healthcare workers within the period under review, the agency observed that both suspected and confirmed cases remain higher than figures reported at the same time last year.

To contain the outbreak, the NCDC says a national multi-partner incident management system has been activated, alongside intensified measures including contact tracing, infection prevention and control strategies, and the deployment of rapid response teams to high-burden states.

The agency is also urging state governments to strengthen community engagement and public awareness on preventive measures, while advising healthcare workers to maintain a high index of suspicion and strictly adhere to infection prevention and control protocols.