Nigeria: Lassa Fever Death Toll Rises to 159 – NCDC Raises Alarm

 

Laser fever


ABUJA, NIGERIA — The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has sounded fresh alarm as the death toll from the ongoing Lassa Fever outbreak in 2025 has climbed to 159 lives lost nationwide. The disease, which continues to spread across multiple states, has raised serious public health concerns as Nigeria battles to contain its deadly effects.


What is Lassa Fever?


Lassa Fever is an acute viral hemorrhagic illness caused by the Lassa virus, typically spread through contact with food or household items contaminated by urine or feces of infected multimammate rats. Human-to-human transmission is also possible, especially in healthcare settings without strict infection control.


According to the World Health Organization (WHO), Nigeria remains the epicenter of Lassa Fever outbreaks in West Africa, accounting for the majority of reported cases in the region each year.


Latest NCDC Report


The NCDC weekly epidemiological update revealed that:


159 deaths have been recorded in 2025 so far.


Over 850 confirmed cases have been reported across 28 states and 110 Local Government Areas (LGAs).


States like Ondo, Edo, Bauchi, Ebonyi, and Taraba remain the hardest hit, accounting for the majority of infections.



Health authorities emphasize that the actual number of infections may be higher due to underreporting, limited testing capacity, and lack of awareness in rural communities.


Symptoms to Watch Out For


Lassa Fever symptoms often begin gradually and can easily be mistaken for malaria or typhoid, making early detection difficult. Common signs include:


Persistent fever


Weakness and fatigue


Sore throat and chest pain


Nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain


Unexplained bleeding from gums, nose, or other orifices in severe cases



Experts warn that seeking early medical care is the best chance for survival.


NCDC and Government Response


The Nigerian government, through the NCDC and the Federal Ministry of Health, has stepped up efforts to curb the outbreak. Measures include:


Deployment of rapid response teams to affected states.


Establishment of Lassa Fever treatment centers equipped with antiviral drugs like Ribavirin.


Public awareness campaigns on hygiene, food storage, and rodent control.


Training of healthcare workers on infection prevention and control measures.



Despite these efforts, limited resources, poor sanitation, and inadequate funding continue to hinder effective containment.


Nigeria

How to Prevent Lassa Fever


Public health experts recommend simple but effective preventive strategies:


Store food properly in rodent-proof containers.


Keep homes clean and dispose of garbage regularly.


Avoid contact with rodents or their droppings.


Practice good hygiene, including regular hand washing.


Seek medical help early if symptoms appear.



Community involvement is seen as critical in stopping the spread of the disease.

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Global Concerns


The rising Lassa Fever cases in Nigeria also draw international concern. With increasing global travel, experts warn that outbreaks can spread beyond West Africa if not controlled. The WHO and international partners are supporting Nigeria with technical assistance, laboratory supplies, and surveillance support.



The rising death toll from Lassa Fever in Nigeria is a stark reminder of the urgent need to strengthen public health systems, invest in research, and promote awareness at all levels of society.


While the government continues to take measures, experts stress that prevention begins at home with improved hygiene and vigilance. Nigerians are urged to take personal responsibility in combating this deadly disease.


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