In a renewed public health alert, the Federal Government has intensified surveillance efforts as Lassa fever continues its deadly spread across Nigeria. The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has revealed that 1,277 individuals are currently under close monitoring due to possible exposure to the virus, which has already claimed 122 lives in the first quarter of 2025.
According to data released by the NCDC, a total of 659 confirmed Lassa fever cases have been recorded out of 3,779 suspected cases between January and March 30. The death toll stands at 122, representing a Case Fatality Rate (CFR) of 18.5%, a slight improvement from the 18.7% recorded during the same period in 2024.
The report shows that 18 states have been affected so far in 2025, with Ondo, Bauchi, and Edo states accounting for the majority of infections. Specifically, Ondo leads with 30% of confirmed cases, followed by Bauchi with 25%, and Edo with 16%, contributing to a combined 71% of the national total.
The Centre has activated a multi-sectoral Incident Management System (IMS) to strengthen the national response. “We are closely monitoring 1,277 contacts across various regions, while 1,448 have already completed their follow-up process,” the report stated.
The Lassa fever virus, a member of the arenavirus family, is primarily transmitted to humans through contact with food or household items contaminated by infected rodent urine or feces. Human-to-human transmission can also occur in healthcare settings, especially in the absence of strict infection prevention measures.
So far in 2025, 20 healthcare workers across eight states have been infected, highlighting the continued occupational risk faced by frontline responders.
The NCDC report also provides a breakdown of the demographics affected. The predominant age group remains individuals aged 21 to 30 years, with a median age of 30. The male-to-female ratio of confirmed cases is currently 1:0.8, indicating slightly higher infections among males.
Despite the alarming numbers, officials note that proactive case tracking and improved surveillance mechanisms are helping to contain the spread and facilitate early detection.
Lassa Fever’s Year-Round Threat
Unlike some other viral infections, Lassa fever is not seasonal. However, transmission tends to spike between October and May, during the dry season when contact with rodent hosts becomes more likely. Public health experts emphasize the importance of year-round awareness and sanitation practices to reduce risk.
Speaking to Ireport247new , a senior public health analyst, Dr. Temitope Ayeni, warned that “complacency during non-peak months can create a false sense of security. We need continued education, community sensitization, and strong health system support at the local level.”
In response to the outbreak, the Federal Ministry of Health has directed all 36 state governments and the Federal Capital Territory to strengthen their surveillance and emergency preparedness systems. Isolation centres in high-risk zones have also been placed on high alert.
The Director-General of NCDC, Dr. Jide Idris, urged Nigerians to remain vigilant. “Avoid contact with rodents, store food properly, and report symptoms such as persistent fever, weakness, and bleeding to the nearest health facility. Early diagnosis is key to survival,” he said.
With over 120 lives lost and thousands more at risk, the Federal Government’s continued contact tracing and awareness campaigns may prove critical in reducing the spread of the Lassa virus. However, experts caution that stronger health infrastructure, sustained funding, and grassroots education are essential for long-term disease control.
As Nigeria battles this silent killer, public cooperation and community-based strategies remain crucial in halting the deadly march of Lassa fever.