In the first two weeks of January 2025, Nigeria has experienced a significant surge in Lassa fever cases. According to the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC), there have been 143 confirmed cases and 22 deaths reported across seven states.
Epidemiological Overview
The NCDC’s Week 2 report indicates an increase in confirmed cases from 54 in Week 1 to 89 in Week 2. The affected states include Ondo, Edo, Taraba, Bauchi, Gombe, Kogi, and Ebonyi. Notably, 77% of all confirmed cases were reported from Ondo, Edo, and Bauchi states, with Ondo accounting for 38%, Edo 22%, and Bauchi 17%. The case fatality rate (CFR) stands at 15.4%, slightly lower than the 16.4% recorded during the same period in 2024.
Demographic Insights
The predominant age group affected is 21-30 years, with a median age of 32 years. The male-to-female ratio among confirmed cases is 1:0.7, indicating a higher prevalence in males. Additionally, one healthcare worker was affected in Week 2, underscoring the occupational risk associated with the disease.
Comparative Analysis with Previous Year
When compared to the same period in 2024, the number of suspected cases has decreased. By Week 2 of 2024, there were 486 suspected cases, 134 confirmed cases, and 22 deaths, resulting in a CFR of 16.4%. In contrast, 2025 has seen 484 suspected cases, 143 confirmed cases, and 22 deaths by the same week, with a CFR of 15.4%. This data suggests a slight decrease in both suspected cases and CFR, but a marginal increase in confirmed cases.
Geographical Spread
As of Week 2, 2025, seven states have reported at least one confirmed case across 32 Local Government Areas (LGAs). This is a reduction from the same period in 2024, where 13 states and 42 LGAs were affected. The decrease in geographical spread may indicate improved containment measures or reporting discrepancies.
Response Activities
In response to the outbreak, the NCDC has activated a multi-partner, multi-sectoral Incident Management System (IMS) to coordinate activities at all levels. Key actions include:
- Orientation on the use of the Lassa fever Advocacy toolkit for preparedness and response.
- Planning for the 6th Lassa Fever webinar series in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Environment and partners.
- Training healthcare workers on case management in Bauchi, Ebonyi, and Benue states, with plans to extend training to Plateau and Taraba states.
- Conducting press briefings to inform the public about the outbreak.
- Reviewing the Lassa Fever Advocacy toolkit with support from Breakthrough ACTION Nigeria.
- Conducting risk assessments in preparation for the 2025 outbreak season.
- Issuing alert letters to states and sharing public health advisories.
- Providing offsite support to all states for daily and weekly situation reporting.
- Ensuring confirmed cases are treated at designated treatment centres across the states.
These measures aim to enhance preparedness, improve case management, and strengthen surveillance to mitigate the impact of the outbreak.
Public Health Recommendations
The NCDC emphasizes the importance of early presentation for treatment to improve survival rates. Lassa fever presents initially like other common illnesses accompanied by fever, such as malaria. If symptoms such as sore throat, vomiting, diarrhea, body weakness, and high fever persist after three days of treatment for malaria, it is crucial to visit a healthcare facility.
Preventive measures include:
- Environmental Hygiene: Maintain clean homes to discourage rodents from entering.
- Food Storage: Store foodstuffs in rodent-proof containers.
- Personal Hygiene: Wash hands regularly with soap and running water.
- Safe Food Practices: Avoid drying foodstuffs on roadsides and ensure proper cooking of all foods.
- Community Engagement: Discourage bush burning, which can drive rodents into homes.
Healthcare workers are advised to maintain a high index of suspicion for Lassa fever, adhere strictly to standard precautions, and ensure appropriate use of personal protective equipment (PPE) when managing suspected cases. Early recognition and prompt treatment can save lives.
Conclusion
The increase in Lassa fever cases in early 2025 highlights the need for continued vigilance, public awareness, and adherence to preventive measures. The NCDC, in collaboration with state health authorities and partners, remains committed to controlling the outbreak and reducing its impact on the Nigerian population.