1,154 Confirmed Cases Of Lassa Fever: How Authorities Are Responding To The OutbreaK

1,154 Confirmed Cases Of Lassa Fever: How Authorities Are Responding To The OutbreaK

The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has reported 1,154 confirmed cases of Lassa fever from a total of 9,492 suspected cases, alongside 190 fatalities in 2024 so far…READ MORE…

At a press briefing in Abuja on Monday, NCDC Director General Jide Idris announced the activation of the Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) in response to the rising cases. The agency has classified the situation as a high-risk emergency.

Idris stated that the NCDC is actively addressing the ongoing Lassa fever outbreak during this peak season.

Lassa fever is an acute viral hemorrhagic fever caused by the Lassa virus, which is primarily carried by the multimammate rat, also known as the African rat, along with other rodent species.

The virus is transmitted through direct contact with infected rats’ droppings, urine, saliva, or blood, as well as through contaminated surfaces or food and water. Person-to-person transmission can also occur through contact with the bodily fluids of infected individuals.

“Lassa fever continues to be endemic in Nigeria, posing a significant public health threat nationwide. The condition persists year-round, with peak transmission typically occurring between October and May, often during the dry season when human exposure to rodents is heightened,” Idris explained.

So far this year, the NCDC has documented a total of 9,492 suspected cases, 1,154 confirmed cases, and 190 deaths. Six states account for 89% of these confirmed cases: Ondo (29.7%), Edo (22.7%), Bauchi (17.9%), Taraba (8.8%), Benue (5.6%), and Ebonyi (4%). Ten local government areas (LGAs), including Owo, Etsako West, and Esan West, represent nearly 59% of the confirmed cases.

Idris reported an alarming increase in cases and fatalities over the past month, indicating the outbreak’s severity. He noted that the case fatality rate remains high at over 13%, with a noticeable rise in suspected cases compared to the same period in 2023, which he attributed to enhanced surveillance efforts.

He emphasized that most cases are emerging from endemic regions such as Bauchi, Ondo, Edo, Taraba, Ebonyi, and Enugu, highlighting the urgent need for targeted interventions in these areas.

To respond effectively, Idris stated that a coordinated approach is essential to protect vulnerable populations and reduce both the number of cases and fatalities.

He outlined various proactive measures the NCDC has implemented, such as conducting a dynamic risk assessment to determine the emergency activation level. The risk has been classified as high, with a Response Level Two recommended, leading to focused efforts in states experiencing a surge in cases.

The EOC has been activated to ensure efficient coordination of Lassa fever control and management initiatives using a One Health approach.

In preparation for the outbreak, essential medical supplies, infection prevention materials, and diagnostic tools have been distributed across states. Additionally, the number of Lassa fever testing laboratories has increased from nine to thirteen, with plans for further upgrades.

Idris mentioned that rodent control exercises are being conducted in high-burden states such as Edo, Ebonyi, Ondo, and Benue, which target communities with high numbers of cases.

He urged the public to maintain cleanliness in their surroundings, store food properly, avoid drying food outside on the ground, discourage bush burning and deforestation, and uphold personal hygiene practices.

Healthcare providers should remain vigilant and consider Lassa fever diagnoses when encountering patients with feverish symptoms. All suspected cases must be reported to local Disease Surveillance and Notification Officers to ensure timely diagnosis and referral for public health measures.

“The NCDC is dedicated to safeguarding public health through proactive strategies, coordinated responses, and collaboration with stakeholders. By implementing these guidelines and adhering to public health advisories, we can mitigate the impact of Lassa fever and protect our communities nationwide,” he concluded

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