The Nigeria Center for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has reported a startling rise in Lassa Fever cases across the country, with 506 confirmed cases out of 2,492 suspected cases and 95 fatalities, as continued in the NCDC’s week 8 situation report. The growing outbreak, which has reached 70 Local Government Areas (LGAs) in 12 states, indicates a serious Public Health concern. According to the report, there has been a significant increase in the number of confirmed cases, with 54 new cases reported in a single week, up from 38 cases in the previous week.
This increase emphasizes the urgent need to heighten awareness and a concerted response to curb the spread of the deadly hemorrhagic fever. The outbreak remains concentrated in Ondo, Bauchi, and Edo States, which account for 73% of all confirmed cases. Among these, Ondo State recorded 32% of cases, while Bauchi and Edo reported 24% and 17%, respectively. Nine additional states, including Taraba, Ebonyi, Plateau, Benue, Kogi, Gombe, Nasarawa, Delta, and Cross River, have reported the remaining 27% of cases.
Demographic data shows young adults are most affected.
Rising spread of the virus has sparked concerns, particularly as Lassa fever, which was formerly endemic to a few states, is now occurring year-round and expanding to new regions. The demographic data reveals that the most affected age group is between 21 and 30 years, with both men and women at risk. Also, the NCDC confirmed that one healthcare worker was infected in the latest reporting week, which raises concerns about the growing incidence of illnesses among healthcare workers.
Such occurrences highlight the necessity of more stringent infection control protocols and the supply of sufficient protective gear for frontline healthcare personnel. The Lassa virus, which causes Lassa fever, is an acute viral hemorrhagic disease that is mainly spread to people by coming into touch with food or household objects tainted by the urine or feces of infected rodents, especially Mastomys rats. The illness’s symptoms, such as fever, weakness, and muscle soreness, typically resemble those of malaria, making diagnosis challenging and frequently delaying appropriate treatment.
Expanding spread raises national health concerns.
Most times, this delay may be fatal if the infection worsens and causes more serious symptoms like bleeding, organ failure, or shock. Despite efforts to combat the virus, the absence of a vaccine has made prevention the primary defense strategy. The Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI) and Nigeria’s Ministry of Health are advancing clinical trials for a Lassa fever vaccine, but it may take years before one becomes widely available. Until then, prevention remains the most effective defense against the diseases.
Moving forward, the NCDC has urged Nigerians to maintain good hygiene practices, such as storing food in tightly sealed containers, keeping homes clean, and eliminating rats from their surroundings. Public health experts warn that the spread of Lassa fever beyond its traditional hotspots is a troubling development. Once confined to states like Ondo, Ebonyi, and Bauchi, the virus is now appearing in regions that were previously unaffected. The increase in cases across states like Taraba, Kogi, and Gombe suggests that the virus is becoming more entrenched, potentially transforming into a nationwide public health crisis.
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Moreover, the NCDC has activated a multi-partner, multi-sectoral Incident Management System (IMS) to coordinate response efforts at all levels. The agency is working closely with state governments, international health organizations, and other stakeholders to improve early detection, enhance case management, and strengthen public awareness campaigns. The NCDC has repeatedly urged Nigerians to report symptoms early, avoid self-medication, and seek prompt medical attention at designated health facilities. Citizens are also encouraged to push for more government action in the areas of research funding, healthcare preparedness, and vaccine development.