Lassa fever death toll hits 252, over 1, 000 cases recorded nationwide – NCDC

Nigeria’s Lassa fever outbreak has crossed a grim milestone, with 1,035 confirmed cases and 252 deaths recorded nationwide, according to the latest report by the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC).

The NCDC said 14 new confirmed cases were recorded between August 10 and 16, bringing the cumulative case fatality rate (CFR) to 24.4 per cent, higher than the 18.6 per cent recorded during the corresponding period in 2025.

The latest infections were reported in Ondo, Bauchi, Edo and Benue states, which are among the states bearing the heaviest burden of the disease.

Speaking at a National Health Security Press Briefing on Lassa fever preparedness  Wednesday in Abuja, NCDC director-general, Dr Jide Idris, said Nigeria must adopt a coordinated approach to tackling the disease ahead of the annual peak period.

“Our approach during this period will be firmly grounded in One Health. Lassa fever cannot be prevented and controlled by the health sector acting alone,” he said.

Idris added that health, environment, agriculture, livestock, local governments and communities all have complementary roles in preventing infections and reducing deaths.
He stated that the NCDC would continue supporting research, including genomic sequencing, to better understand the outbreak patterns.
The NCDC advised Nigerians to keep homes clean, store food in tightly sealed containers, wash hands regularly and seek medical attention promptly when experiencing fever or body pain.