The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has urged Nigerians to take proactive measures to prevent Lassa fever as the country recorded 1,119 confirmed cases and 206 deaths in 2025.
In its week 51 situation report (December 15–21), the agency reported a case fatality rate (CFR) of 18.4 per cent, up from 16.4 per cent in the same period last year. Weekly cases slightly declined from 28 in week 50 to 21 in week 51. The new infections were reported in Edo, Bauchi, Kogi, Ebonyi, Plateau, Ondo, and Taraba States, with Ondo, Bauchi, Taraba, and Edo alone accounting for 88 per cent of all confirmed cases.
The NCDC emphasized the importance of early symptom reporting, improved hygiene, proper food storage, and rodent control to reduce transmission. Young adults aged 21–30 remain the most affected group, though no new healthcare worker infections were recorded during the latest week.
So far in 2025, 21 states across 105 local government areas have reported at least one confirmed case. While the total number of suspected and confirmed cases is lower than in 2024, indicating a possible gradual decline in transmission, the agency warned that vigilance remains crucial.
The NCDC reiterated its commitment to supporting states with surveillance, diagnostics, case management, and public awareness campaigns, urging Nigerians—particularly in high-burden areas—to adhere strictly to preventive measures.
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