Lassa Fever Kills 146, CFR Hits 25.1% in Early 2026 – NCDC
Nigerian health authorities report 146 deaths from Lassa fever between January and mid-March 2026, with a case fatality rate of 25.1 per cent—significantly higher than 18.7 per cent during the same period in 2025. The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) confirmed 38 health workers have been infected this year, underscoring risks in healthcare settings. While weekly confirmed cases rose to 66 in epidemiological week 11, the outbreak spans 21 states and 82 local government areas, with Bauchi (28%), Ondo (21%), Taraba (20%), Benue (8%), and Edo (8%) accounting for 85 per cent of all infections. Young adults aged 21 to 30 are most affected, though cases range from age 1 to 90. Challenges persist despite NCDC activating a national Incident Management System: poor health-seeking behavior due to high treatment costs, low community awareness, and inadequate sanitation fuel transmission. Late presentation and weak infection control contribute to the high death rate, even as total cases remain lower than in 2025. The NCDC urges state governments to intensify year-round prevention in high-risk areas and advises healthcare workers to maintain suspicion for Lassa fever, ensure early diagnosis, and strictly follow infection control protocols. For residents, avoiding rodent contact and seeking prompt care for fever symptoms are critical. If you live in Bauchi, Ondo, Taraba, Benue, or Edo—states with 85% of cases—do you know how to prevent Lassa fever in your home? Will you seek immediate medical attention if you develop fever or headache?