Lassa fever remains a major Public Health challenge in Nigeria, with outbreaks occurring annually, particularly during the dry season. The viral disease, transmitted primarily through contact with the excreta of infected rodents or from person to person in healthcare settings, has led to significant morbidity and mortality. Despite efforts to contain the disease, Nigeria continues to record high infection rates due to delayed detection, weak healthcare infrastructure, and poor public awareness. To effectively address this issue, the federal government must implement a coordinated and sustained approach that strengthens surveillance, improves healthcare response, enhances public education, and fosters international collaboration.
A critical first step is strengthening disease surveillance and early detection mechanisms. Lassa Fever often goes undiagnosed in its early stages due to the similarity of its symptoms to other febrile illnesses like Malaria and typhoid. The government should expand laboratory testing facilities across all regions, ensuring that suspected cases are diagnosed quickly. Increased funding for the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) will improve real-time monitoring of outbreaks and allow for faster response measures. Additionally, training healthcare workers to identify and report cases promptly can significantly reduce transmission rates, preventing minor outbreaks from escalating into national health emergencies.
Government must invest in treatment centres to aid adequate care.
Moreover, Nigeria’s healthcare system must also be better equipped to manage Lassa fever cases effectively. Many hospitals lack the necessary isolation wards, protective equipment, and treatment facilities, putting both healthcare workers and patients at risk. The federal government should invest in dedicated treatment centres in endemic areas, ensuring that infected individuals receive proper care without spreading the disease to others. Research into more effective treatment options, including the development of vaccines, should also be prioritised. By strengthening healthcare Infrastructure and ensuring the availability of antiviral drugs, Nigeria can reduce the fatality rate associated with Lassa fever.
Furthermore, public awareness campaigns can help Nigerians make healthier choices, particularly in rural areas where the risk of Lassa fever is highest. Since the disease is often linked to poor Sanitation and rodent infestation, educating people on proper food storage, environmental cleanliness, and personal hygiene is essential. Government-led sensitisation programmes through radio, television, and Social Media can promote preventive measures, while community-driven initiatives can encourage collective action against rodent infestations. Schools and religious institutions should also be involved in spreading awareness, ensuring that prevention messages reach a wider audience.
Collaborating with international organisations can help Nigeria.
Coordination between different levels of government is equally important in the fight against Lassa fever. The federal government should work closely with state and local authorities to implement a unified response strategy. Emergency response teams should be established to contain outbreaks in affected communities, providing medical assistance and enforcing preventive measures. Strengthening the supply chain for essential medical equipment, such as personal protective gear and rapid diagnostic kits, will ensure that frontline workers are adequately prepared. A decentralised but well-coordinated approach will improve response efficiency and reduce the burden on overstretched healthcare facilities.
International collaboration can further strengthen Nigeria’s ability to combat Lassa fever. Partnering with global health organisations such as the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI) can provide access to funding, technical expertise, and research support. Given that Lassa fever is endemic to West Africa, regional cooperation with neighbouring countries can help establish cross-border surveillance systems, reducing the risk of wider outbreaks. Engaging in vaccine research and leveraging global advancements in epidemic preparedness will position Nigeria at the forefront of efforts to control the disease.
Related Article: West Africa unites against Lassa fever threat
Altogether, a sustained and extensive approach is essential for effectively tackling Lassa fever in Nigeria. By strengthening disease surveillance, improving healthcare infrastructure, increasing public awareness, enhancing coordination among government agencies, and fostering international partnerships, the federal government can significantly reduce the impact of the disease. Without decisive action, Lassa fever will continue to threaten public health, but with the right measures in place, Nigeria can make substantial progress in controlling and eventually eliminating the disease.