LASSA Fever Outbreak: Nearly 1,000 cases, 177 deaths

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00:00According to the latest report by NCDC, Nigeria has recorded 966 confirmed cases and 177 dead

00:09across 21 states within the first 10 months of the year. This raises the case fatality rate

00:15to 18.3% up from 16.5% recorded in the same period last year. Lassa fever, a viral hemorrhagic

00:25illness spread mainly through food or household items contaminated with rodent urine or feces

00:33continues to threaten many households, especially during its peak seasons.

00:39For affected families, these are not just numbers but lives disrupted and communities deeply impacted.

00:46The Nigeria Center for Disease Control reports notes that Ondo, Balchi, Edo and Taraba State

00:52accounts for 87% of all confirmed infections indicating sustained transmission in these

00:59regions. So far, 102 local government areas have reported cases with epidemiological week 44,

01:08recording 12 new infections, likely higher than the previous week. Health workers remain on the

01:14front line of the response. Although no new healthcare worker infections were recorded last

01:19year, the NCDC is urging medical personnel to maintain a high level of suspicion and ensure

01:25early referral of suspected cases to improve survival rates. Members of the public are also advised to

01:32remain vigilant and strictly adhere to preventive measures. In response to the growing crisis,

01:39the NCDC and the National Lassa Fever Technical Working Group have intensified intervention effort.

01:4510 national rapid response teams have been deployed to affected states and an infection prevention and

01:52control e-learning platform has been launched. Updated guidelines for many viral hemorrhagic

01:58fevers are now being distributed to healthcare facilities across the country. Additionally, states like

02:05Lagos are issuing thermometers to contact of confirmed cases to support early temperature monitoring,

02:13while Balchi, Ebonyi and Bainway State have benefited from WHO-supported case management training.

02:21Experts warn that the raising fatality rate underscores the urgent need for early diagnosis,

02:28rapid treatment, and broader community awareness. Symptoms such as fever, headaches, and general

02:35weakness often mimic malaria and typhoon, leading to delays in seeking appropriate medical care.

02:42The NCDC emphasizes that controlling Lassa fever requires collective responsibility, preventing rodent

02:49infestations, practicing good hygiene, and seeking medical attention promptly. As Nigeria works to cop the

02:56outbreak, sustained investment, stronger public healthcare systems, and community engagement remain

03:04crucial to reducing infections and saving.