Lassa Fever Cases Surge 14% in Nigeria, 23% Fatality Rate
Nigeria's Lassa fever cases increased 14% in one week, with 82 new infections and 20 deaths reported. The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) confirmed 75 fatalities cumulatively from week 1 to 7 2026, compared to 19.7% CFR in 2025. Four states account for 84% of cases: Bauchi (33%), Ondo (22%), Taraba (19%), and Edo (10%). The 21-30 age group is most affected, with a male-to-female ratio of 1:0.8. Five healthcare workers were infected during the reporting week. Response teams deployed to high-burden states with PPE and Ribavirin distribution. Challenges include late case presentation and treatment costs. NCDC urges year-round community engagement and healthcare worker vigilance.