The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention has confirmed that Lassa fever has claimed the lives of 122 individuals between January and March 30, 2025.
This is according to a new report revealing that 659 cases have been confirmed out of 3,779 suspected infections.
The agency disclosed that a total of 1,277 individuals are currently under follow-up for possible exposure to the virus, while 1,448 contacts have successfully completed the monitoring process.
The report shows that 18 states across Nigeria have recorded cases of the disease, with Ondo, Bauchi, and Edo States accounting for 71% of all confirmed infections. Specifically, Ondo recorded 30% of the cases, Bauchi 25%, and Edo 16%.
“In total for 2025, 18 states have recorded at least one confirmed case across 93 Local Government Areas,” the NCDC stated. “The predominant age group affected is 21-30 years, and the male-to-female ratio stands at 1:0.8.”
Though the Case Fatality Rate (CFR) stands at 18.5%, the NCDC noted it is slightly lower than the 18.7% recorded during the same period in 2024.
In response to the outbreak, the National Lassa Fever Incident Management System has been activated to coordinate multi-sectoral efforts to contain the spread. So far this year, 20 healthcare workers in eight states have been infected with the virus.
“No new health worker was affected in the 13th epidemiological week,” the agency confirmed, adding that the number of suspected cases has surpassed the figure reported during the same period last year.
Lassa fever, a viral hemorrhagic illness, is transmitted primarily through contact with food or household items contaminated by urine or feces of infected rodents, particularly the multimammate rat.
The NCDC emphasized that cases occur year-round but typically surge between October and May, urging the public to maintain proper hygiene, avoid contact with rodents, and seek medical attention promptly if symptoms develop.
The agency reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding public health through surveillance, early detection, and coordinated response.
“We are working closely with our partners and state governments to mitigate the impact of the disease and prevent further fatalities,” the NCDC assured.
