According to the latest report published on Thursday, November 19, 2025, Nigeria has recorded 966 confirmed cases and 177 deaths across 21 states within the first ten months of the year. This raises the Case Fatality Rate to 18.3 percent, up from 16.5 percent recorded in the same period last year.
Lassa fever, a viral haemorrhagic illness spread mainly through food or household items contaminated with rodent urine or feces, continues to threaten many households, especially during its peak seasons. For affected families, these are not just numbers but lives disrupted and communities deeply impacted.
The NCDC report notes that Ondo, Bauchi, Edo, and Taraba States account for 87 percent of all confirmed infections, indicating sustained transmission in these regions. So far, 102 Local Government Areas have reported cases, with epidemiological week 44 recording 12 new infections—slightly higher than the previous week.
Health workers remain on the frontline of the response. Although no new healthcare worker infections were recorded last week, the NCDC is urging medical personnel to maintain a high level of suspicion and ensure early referral of suspected cases to improve survival rates. Members of the public are also advised to remain vigilant and strictly adhere to preventive measures.
In response to the growing crisis, the NCDC and the National Lassa Fever Technical Working Group have intensified intervention efforts. Ten National Rapid Response Teams have been deployed to affected states, and an Infection Prevention and Control e-learning platform has been launched. Updated guidelines for managing viral haemorrhagic fevers are now being distributed to healthcare facilities across the country.
Additionally, states like Lagos are issuing thermometers to contacts of confirmed cases to support early temperature monitoring, while Bauchi, Ebonyi, and Benue States have benefited from WHO-supported case management training.
Experts warn that the rising fatality rate underscores the urgent need for early diagnosis, rapid treatment, and broader community awareness. Symptoms such as fever, headaches, and general weakness often mimic malaria and typhoid, leading to delays in seeking appropriate medical care.
The NCDC emphasizes that controlling Lassa fever requires collective responsibility—preventing rodent infestations, practicing good hygiene, and seeking medical attention promptly.
As Nigeria works to curb the outbreak, sustained investment, stronger public health systems, and community engagement remain crucial to reducing infections and saving.
