The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) has raised the alarm over a 23.2% Case Fatality Rate in the current Lassa Fever outbreak

As of March 2026, the NCDC reported a 23.2% Case Fatality Rate (CFR) for Lassa fever, with 109 deaths recorded, exceeding the 2025 rate. The outbreak is concentrated, with 84% of confirmed cases in five states, heavily impacting healthcare workers and demanding urgent prevention measures against rodent transmission

Key Details of the 2026 Lassa Fever Crisis

·        High Mortality: The CFR is 23.2%, which is higher than the 18.7% reported during the same period in 2025 according to Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention

·        Impacted Regions: 84% of confirmed cases are concentrated in Bauchi, Ondo, Taraba, Edo, and Benue states

·        Affected Health Workers: 28 healthcare workers have been infected in 2026, indicating increased transmission risk in clinical settings.

·        Key Trends: Despite a slight dip in weekly cases by late February, the total number of deaths and severity remains higher than last year.

Prevention and Control Measures

·        Hygiene: Keep homes and communities clean to prevent rat infestations.

·        Food Safety: Store food in rodent-proof containers, cook all food thoroughly, and avoid drying food in the open.

·        Healthcare: Early identification and treatment with ribavirin are critical.