The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has urged all Nigerians to take steps to combat Lassa fever. According to the agency’s most recent report, 1,119 people were diagnosed with the disease in 2025, and 206 died.
The report covers Week 51, which lasted from December 15 to December 21. During that week, the case fatality rate was 18.4%, up from 16.4% the previous year.
There were only 21 new cases reported in week 51, down from 28 the previous week. This indicates a slight decrease in the number of infections each week.
New cases were discovered in seven states: Edo, Bauchi, Kogi, Ebonyi, Plateau, Ondo, and Taraba. Four of these states, Ondo, Bauchi, Taraba, and Edo, accounted for 88% of all confirmed cases.
The NCDC recommends early reporting of any fever or flu-like symptoms. They also recommend improving hygiene, proper food storage, and keeping homes free of rodents to prevent the disease from spreading.
The most affected age group remains young adults aged 21 to 30. The good news is that there were no new infections among health workers in the last week.
So far, 21 states and 105 local government areas have reported at least one Lassa fever case in 2025. The total number of suspected and confirmed cases this year is lower than in 2024, which could indicate that the outbreak is gradually diminishing.
The NCDC promised to continue assisting states with disease surveillance, testing, treatment, and public education. They want everyone to stay vigilant and take preventive measures, particularly in areas where the disease is prevalent.
Nigerians can help reduce the impact of Lassa fever while also protecting their families and communities by working together and taking simple steps.
