Alarming Surge: Lassa Fever Cases Skyrocket In Ondo And Edo—What You Need To Know

The NCDC noted a significant uptick in Lassa fever cases nationwide, with a cumulative total of 1,018 infections across 28 states in 2024. “As of week 39 (September 23-29), there have been 172 reported deaths, reflecting a slight rise in the Case Fatality Rate (CFR) to 16.9 percent, up from 16.8 percent during the same period in 2023,” the report stated.

The latest data indicated that a substantial portion of confirmed cases was concentrated in Ondo and Edo states, accounting for 68 percent of the total confirmed cases for the year. Specifically, Ondo reported 28 percent of the cases, followed by Edo with 23 percent, and Bauchi with 17 percent.

The NCDC highlighted that individuals aged 31 to 40 were the most commonly affected group, with an equal distribution of cases among genders. Notably, no cases among healthcare workers were reported during this week, which is viewed as a positive development amid the surge in infections.

Despite ongoing efforts to control the spread of the disease, the agency expressed concern over the rising death toll. Factors contributing to the high case fatality rate include delayed diagnoses, inadequate health-seeking behavior, and poor sanitation conditions in areas heavily impacted by the disease. The limited availability of treatment also poses a significant challenge to the nation’s aim of reducing mortality rates.

The NCDC mentioned that the National Lassa Fever Technical Working Group (TWG) has been actively coordinating response efforts, with updates being disseminated through the Nigeria Preparedness and Readiness Alert System (NPRAS) to keep the public informed.

Collaborative measures have been put in place to bolster the response to this issue. Lassa fever, classified by the World Health Organization (WHO) as a virus with a high potential for serious epidemics, is increasingly concerning, particularly as global warming may expose around 700 million individuals to risk.

Symptoms of the illness include high fever, severe headaches, muscle aches, and in severe cases, facial swelling and bleeding, with many patients facing long-term complications such as hearing loss. In light of the ongoing Lassa fever epidemic, health officials stress the importance of collective action from both the government and the public to prevent further fatalities.