Nigeria’s Lassa Fever Outbreak Reaches 127 Deaths

Nigeria faces a worsening Lassa fever crisis, with 127 deaths and 674 confirmed cases from 4,025 suspected infections reported across 18 states since January 2025, Xinhua reported. The southern states of Ondo and Edo, alongside northern Bauchi, account for over 70% of cases. The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) reports an 18.8% fatality rate, slightly higher than 2024’s 18.5%. Young adults (21–30 years) are most affected, with males outnumbering females (ratio: 1:0.8).

Challenges include poor healthcare access, high treatment costs, and low awareness in high-risk areas. The NCDC has activated emergency measures to coordinate testing and public education. Lassa fever spreads via rodent-contaminated food or direct contact with infected rats’ bodily fluids.

The outbreak follows 214 deaths in 2024, exposing gaps in rodent control and rural healthcare. With the rainy season approaching—traditionally linked to increased rodent activity—authorities warn of potential case surges without sustained intervention.