The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has announced the registration of seven additional Lassa fever cases across Edo, Bauchi, and Kogi states. According to the NCDC's official website, these cases were recorded between July 22 and July 28, bringing the total number of deaths in 2024 to 163, with a Case Fatality Rate (CFR) of 17.0%.
The NCDC reported that Edo state accounted for four cases, Bauchi recorded two, and Kogi had one, with no fatalities during the review period. Notably, 66% of confirmed cases in 2024 were from Ondo, Edo, and Bauchi, while 34% were reported from 25 other states.
The agency highlighted challenges in combating Lassa fever, including late presentation of cases, poor health-seeking behavior, and environmental sanitation conditions. The NCDC emphasized the need for heightened surveillance and preventive measures, urging the public to adhere to safety protocols and report symptoms promptly.
The agency is intensifying efforts to trace contacts, implement control measures, and coordinate responses with state health authorities. The National Lassa Fever Multi-partner, Multi-sectoral Technical Working Group (TWG) will continue to oversee responses at all levels.