Fear and concern have intensified across Nigeria as the deadly Lassa fever outbreak continues to sweep through the nation, claiming numerous lives and prompting urgent responses from health authorities. Over the past weeks, the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has reported a staggering surge in cases, with fatalities recorded in 16 states.
According to the latest updates from the NCDC, between February 26 and March 3 alone, the country witnessed a devastating toll of 20 deaths and 109 confirmed cases of Lassa fever. This acute viral hemorrhagic illness, transmitted primarily through contact with contaminated rodents or infected persons, has unleashed a wave of suffering and sorrow nationwide.
The symptoms of Lassa fever, ranging from fever and headache to severe bleeding from various body openings, have struck individuals across different age groups, with the predominant age bracket affected being 31 to 40 years old. Despite concerted efforts to stem the tide of the outbreak, new cases and fatalities continue to emerge, underscoring the gravity of the situation.
The NCDC has activated its National Lassa Fever multi-partner, multi-sectoral incident management system to coordinate response efforts at all levels through Emergency Operations Centres (EOCs). However, the scale of the outbreak poses significant challenges, with 62 percent of confirmed cases concentrated in Ondo, Edo, and Bauchi states, and the remaining 38 percent spread across other affected states.
In Taraba State, the Federal Medical Centre (FMC) in Jalingo reported a distressing tally of 19 confirmed deaths from Lassa fever between January and February. State health officials, in collaboration with national agencies, are working tirelessly to contain the spread of the disease, implementing rigorous surveillance and treatment measures.
Similarly, Benue State has grappled with a surge in cases, recording 46 confirmed cases and nine deaths in multiple local government areas, including some from Internally Displaced Persons’ camps. The state epidemiologist highlighted the challenges of combating the outbreak amidst resource constraints but emphasized ongoing efforts to mitigate its impact.
Meanwhile, Ebonyi State has been particularly hard hit, with 23 deaths out of 45 confirmed cases, reflecting a case fatality rate of 51.1 percent. The state government, in collaboration with federal agencies and partners, has intensified response activities, focusing on surveillance, risk communication, and coordinated interventions.
The alarming spread of Lassa fever has prompted urgent action in Kaduna State, where five deaths were confirmed as part of the outbreak. Health officials are emphasizing the importance of public education and prevention measures, urging citizens to remain vigilant and take proactive steps to mitigate the risk of infection.
As the nation grapples with this public health crisis, experts underscore the critical role of prevention in combating the spread of Lassa fever. Heightened awareness, effective waste management, and measures to control rodent populations are essential strategies to safeguard communities and prevent further loss of lives.
