Nigeria Grapples with Lassa Fever Outbreak: 811 Cases, 152 Deaths Recorded

Nigeria is in the midst of a severe Lassa fever outbreak, with 811 confirmed cases and 152 deaths reported as of epidemiological Week 28, 2025. The Case Fatality Rate (CFR) stands at 18.7%, higher than the 17.3% recorded during the same period in 2024.

Key Highlights of the Outbreak

• Confirmed Cases: 811 cases reported across 21 states and 105 Local Government Areas.
• Death Toll: 152 deaths recorded, with a CFR of 18.7%.
• Most Affected States: Five states account for 89% of confirmed cases:
  • Ondo: 32% of confirmed cases
  • Bauchi: 23% of confirmed cases
  • Edo: 17% of confirmed cases
  • Taraba: 14% of confirmed cases
  • Ebonyi: 3% of confirmed cases
• Age Group Most Affected: 21-30 years, with a median age of 30 years.

Response Efforts

The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has activated the National Lassa Fever Multi-Sectoral Incident Management System (IMS) to coordinate efforts to tackle the crisis. The NCDC emphasizes the importance of early diagnosis, prompt treatment, and improved public awareness to contain the outbreak.