By Fatima Saka
The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has raised an alarm over the rising cases of Lassa fever in the country. Between February 24 and March 2, 2025, a total of 2,728 suspected cases, 535 confirmed cases, and 98 deaths were recorded across 14 states, with a case fatality rate (CFR) of 18.3%, cautions against African rat.
States and Areas Most Affected
According to NCDC Director-General, Dr. Jide Idris, five states account for 91% of confirmed cases:
Ondo (31%)
Bauchi (24%)
Edo (17%)
Taraba (16%)
Ebonyi (3%)
Additionally, 10 local government areas (LGAs) contribute 68% of confirmed cases, including Owo, Akure South, Etsako West, Kirfi, Akoko South West, Bali, Esan North East, Bauchi, Toro, and Jalingo.
Confirmed Case with International Travel
On March 5, 2025, the Ondo State Ministry of Health reported a confirmed case of Lassa fever in a 31-year-old physician who had recently returned from the UK. The patient, who had visited Edo State before traveling abroad, developed symptoms and was tested for Lassa fever on February 28. Unfortunately, he passed away on March 1, with laboratory results confirming Lassa fever on March 4.
In response, authorities have intensified:
Contact tracing and monitoring of all possible contacts.
Surveillance at entry and exit points, in collaboration with Port Health Services.
International coordination, including sharing information with UK health officials per the International Health Regulations (2005).
Understanding Lassa Fever
Lassa fever is an acute viral hemorrhagic fever (VHF) caused by the Lassa virus, primarily spread by the multimammate rat (also known as the African rat). Transmission occurs through:
Direct contact with urine, feces, saliva, or blood of infected rodents.
Consumption of contaminated food and drinks.
Contact with infected persons’ body fluids, especially in healthcare settings with poor infection control.
Symptoms of Lassa Fever
Lassa fever initially mimics other illnesses, such as malaria, and presents with:
Fever
Headache
General body weakness
Cough, sore throat
Vomiting, diarrhea, muscle pain
In severe cases, bleeding from the eyes, ears, nose, or mouth
Who Is Most at Risk?
People at high risk include:
Those living in rat-infested areas.
People consuming food exposed to rodents.
Health workers without adequate infection control measures.
Caregivers handling infected patients without protection.
Laboratory staff handling blood samples from suspected Lassa fever patients.
Preventive Measures
To reduce the risk of Lassa fever, the public is advised to:
Keep homes, markets, and waste disposal areas clean.
READ ALSO: African Rat Links to Rising Lassa Fever Cases in Nigeria – NCDC Warns
Block entry points for rodents in homes.
Store food in sealed containers and avoid open drying of foodstuffs.
Eliminate rats using traps or safe pest control measures.
Maintain proper hand hygiene and avoid self-medication.
Seek medical attention immediately if symptoms appear.
Call to Action
The NCDC is leading efforts in prevention, preparedness, and response to Lassa fever outbreaks. However, state governments and individuals must also play their part by ensuring proper hygiene, reporting suspected cases, and adhering to public health guidelines.
To report suspected Lassa fever cases, contact:
Your Local Government Disease Surveillance Officer (DSNO).
NCDC Hotline: 6232.
For more information, visit the NCDC website or follow updates from your state health ministry.
