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Tag: NCDC

  • Nigeria boosts Ebola alert as outbreak hits DRC

    Nigeria boosts Ebola alert as outbreak hits DRC

    The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) assured Nigerians there are no confirmed cases of Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) in the country.

    This statement comes amid reports of a new Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

    Dr Jide Idris, Director-General of the NCDC, said in a public health advisory issued Saturday in Abuja that Nigeria was on high alert, enhancing surveillance at entry points, healthcare facilities, and communities.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Nigeria’s only Ebola outbreak occurred in 2014, when the virus was imported from Liberia by a traveler, resulting in 20 cases and eight deaths before successful containment.

    The DRC Ministry of Health confirmed 28 suspected Ebola cases and 15 deaths on Sept. 4 in Kasai Province, including four health workers, identifying the Ebola Zaire strain as the outbreak’s cause.

    The outbreak has spread across Bulape and Mweka health zones and recorded a mortality rate of 57 per cent, raising concerns over the disease’s high fatality and potential for further spread.

    According to Idris, there are currently no cases of Ebola in Nigeria, but preparedness has been intensified with infection control, border checks, and community risk communication to prevent importation and transmission.

    He noted the DRC activated its Public Health Emergency Operations Centre and deployed a rapid response team, receiving support from the World Health Organisation (WHO) to contain the outbreak effectively.

    Idris said the Ebola Zaire strain identified had an approved vaccine, Ervebo, which had been proven effective in controlling outbreaks and protecting vulnerable populations in affected regions.

    To protect Nigerians, he urged frequent handwashing with soap and water as regular hygiene, a key preventive measure to reduce transmission risk from contact with infected surfaces or individuals.

    He advised avoiding physical contact with anyone showing symptoms such as fever, vomiting, or unexplained bleeding, which were common signs of Ebola infection and warranted immediate medical attention.

    Idris warned against consuming raw or undercooked bushmeat and cautioned against contact with fruit bats, monkeys, and apes, which were known reservoirs for the Ebola virus in wildlife.

    He encouraged Nigerians to report suspected Ebola cases or unusual illnesses, especially among those with recent travel to affected areas, by calling the NCDC toll-free line 6232 for prompt response.

    Healthcare workers were advised to maintain a high index of suspicion, strictly follow infection prevention protocols, and report any suspected cases immediately to aid rapid containment and treatment efforts.

    Idris further issued travel advice, urging Nigerians to avoid all but essential trips to countries currently experiencing Ebola outbreaks to minimise the risk of exposure and disease importation.

    He assured the public that NCDC would provide timely updates while collaborating with international partners to monitor the evolving situation in the DRC and other affected African regions.

  • Fear as flesh-eating disease rocks Adamawa, 28 infected

    Fear as flesh-eating disease rocks Adamawa, 28 infected

    … as NCDC probes outbreak

    A strange epidemic has hit Adamawa State, leaving at least 28 people infected with a rare disease that eats away at human flesh and destroys bones, igniting fresh fears about Nigeria’s readiness to confront emerging health crises.

    The Chairman of the Adamawa State Primary Healthcare Development Agency, Dr. Suleiman Bashir, confirmed the outbreak to journalists on Saturday, disclosing that several patients are currently receiving treatment at the Modibbo Adama University Teaching Hospital (MAUTH), Yola.

    According to him, samples from the affected individuals have been sent to the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), Abuja, for histology and advanced laboratory analysis.

    Low Acceptance of Medical Care

    Despite the government covering all costs of treatment at MAUTH, only eight victims have agreed to undergo medical care. Many others, driven by poverty, fear, or cultural beliefs, have turned to traditional medicine and local healers.

    Dr. Bashir warned that this could worsen the situation, stressing the need for residents to report unusual health conditions promptly to curb further spread.
    Victims’ Accounts: “It Started Like a Boil”

    The outbreak has been most severe in Malabu community, Fufore Local Government Area, where locals describe the disease as beginning with a small boil that later bursts, forming a festering wound that eats into flesh and bone.

    One victim, Mrs. Phibi Sabo, narrated her ordeal:

    Another patient, Junaidu Adamu, said he had already spent more than ₦200,000 in two months seeking treatment, but his condition had only deteriorated.

    Community Confirms Widespread Infection

    The District Head of Malabu, Aliyu Hammawa, confirmed that no fewer than 30 residents had shown symptoms of the strange illness. He added that while eight patients were admitted to MAUTH, others were receiving care in smaller facilities or being treated at home.

    Nigeria’s Troubled History with Mysterious Outbreaks

    The Adamawa outbreak has rekindled national concern about Nigeria’s preparedness for sudden epidemics, especially in rural areas where reliance on traditional medicine is high.

    Nigeria has a history of puzzling and deadly outbreaks:

    1996 – Kano Meningitis Epidemic: Over 100,000 infected, thousands dead; led to the controversial Pfizer Trovan trial.
    2010 – Zamfara Lead Poisoning: Hundreds of children died from contamination linked to artisanal mining.
    2015 – Ondo “Strange Skin Disease”: Victims suffered rashes, ear and nose bleeding; traced to pesticide exposure.
    2014 – Ebola Virus: Nigeria successfully contained the outbreak through rapid contact tracing and awareness campaigns, earning global praise.
    2017 – Monkeypox Resurgence: Virus re-emerged after decades, spreading to multiple states.
    Recurring Outbreaks: Lassa fever and cholera epidemics still kill hundreds annually due to weak health surveillance and poor sanitation.

    Growing Concerns Over Preparedness

    Public health experts warn that the Adamawa outbreak highlights gaps in Nigeria’s healthcare system, particularly in early detection, rural health infrastructure, and public trust in modern medicine.

    While the NCDC continues its investigations, the state government has urged vigilance, early reporting, and stronger collaboration between medical professionals and communities to prevent the disease from spreading further.

  • Lassa fever kills 152 in Nigeria – NCDC

    Lassa fever kills 152 in Nigeria – NCDC

    The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has reported a total of 152 deaths from Lassa fever in the first 28 weeks of 2025.

    This marks a higher case fatality rate (CFR) of 18.7 per cent compared to 17.3 per cent within the same period in 2024.

    According to the latest situation report released by the NCDC on Monday via its official website, 811 confirmed cases and over 6,520 suspected infections have been recorded so far.

    The Public Health agency said that these span 21 states and 105 local government areas, with the highest burden concentrated in Ondo, Bauchi, Edo, Taraba and Ebonyi states

    “We are witnessing a slight decline in the total number of confirmed cases compared to 2024, but the fatality rate has increased,” it said.

    It also indicated possible late presentation, poor health-seeking behaviour and limited access to early treatment as contributing factors.

    The agency said that in epidemiological week 28 alone, 11 new confirmed cases and one death were recorded, with reported infections from Ondo, Edo, and Benue states.

    It said that no healthcare workers were affected during the week.

    The NCDC said that individuals aged 21–30 years remained the most affected age group, with a nearly equal male-to-female distribution of cases

    In response to the ongoing outbreak, the agency and its partners have intensified interventions in high-burden areas.

    “Ten National Rapid Response Teams have been deployed to affected states using a One Health approach.

    “INTEGRATE Clinical Trials have commenced in Ondo state to support improved case management.

    “Healthcare workers in Bauchi, Ebonyi, and Benue states have received targeted training to strengthen clinical response,” it said.

    It said that environmental campaigns and community sensitisation activities were underway, in collaboration with Nigeria Health Watch, WHO, Pro-Health International, IHVN and other key partners.

    Meanwhile, the agency has launched its Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) e-learning platform, supported by the Global Fund.

    It distributed IPC materials and medical countermeasures such as Ribavirin, PPEs, and disinfectants to states and treatment centres.

    Despite intensified efforts, the NCDC said that several persistent challenges remained.

    “These include the late presentation of cases, which contributes to the high fatality rate.

    “Poor environmental sanitation in affected areas also hinders effective control of the disease.

    “Additionally, low awareness levels in vulnerable communities and the high cost of treatment continue to discourage prompt health-seeking behaviour.”

    The agency stressed the need for community engagement, early detection and prompt treatment to reduce fatalities as Nigeria battles to curb the spread of the disease.

    It appealed to the public to avoid contact with rodents and to seek prompt medical care at designated treatment centres at the first sign of symptoms such as fever, headache or bleeding.

    The NCDC urged Nigerians to continously maintain hygiene, report symptoms early and avoid contact with rodents and their secretions.

    “The public is also encouraged to follow NCDC advisories and utilise the toll-free line 6232 for inquiries,” it said.

    NAN reports that Lassa fever is a viral hemorrhagic disease transmitted primarily through contact with the urine or faeces of infected rats.

    It can also spread from person to person through bodily fluids, contaminated objects or infected medical equipment.

    Symptoms include fever, sore throat, headache, vomiting, muscle pain, and in severe cases, bleeding from the body openings.

  • Disease outbreaks: NCDC calls for urgent measures

    Disease outbreaks: NCDC calls for urgent measures

    The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has raised alarm over a convergence of multiple infectious disease outbreaks currently affecting the country, and urged for urgent measures.

    The NCDC disclosed this via its official website on Friday morning, warning of significant public health risks if urgent measures are not taken.

    It said the country was experiencing a surge in cholera infections, while yellow fever and dengue fever cases have begun to emerge in several states.

    The Public Health agency said that these developments come as the nation continues to grapple with ongoing outbreaks of Mpox and diphtheria.

    According to the NCDC, as of Epidemiological Week 26 (June 23–29, 2025), a total of 34 states have reported suspected cases of cholera, with Zamfara State accounting for 32 per cent of the total caseload.

    Other high-burden states, it said include Bayelsa, Adamawa, Delta, Lagos, and Rivers.

    While the specific number of suspected and confirmed cholera cases was not disclosed, the agency said that the situation demands heightened vigilance and intensified response efforts from all stakeholders.

    It said that cholera is an acute diarrhoeal illness caused by ingestion of food or water contaminated with Vibrio cholerae.

    It said that the symptoms are a sudden onset of profuse watery diarrhoea (often described as “rice water stools”), vomiting, and leg cramps. Severe cases can cause rapid dehydration and death if not treated promptly.

    The NCDC said that Yellow Fever is a viral haemorrhagic disease transmitted by infected mosquitoes (Aedes aegypti) Its symptoms were Fever, muscle pain (especially backache), headache, loss of appetite, and in severe cases, jaundice, bleeding, and organ failure.

    Speaking of dengue fever, it said, it is also transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes, a viral illness that can escalate into severe dengue.

    The agency said that the symptoms were high fever, severe headache, pain behind the eyes, joint and muscle pain (“breakbone fever”), skin rash, and mild bleeding (nose or gum).

    It said that Mpox also known as (Monkeypox) is a viral zoonotic disease with symptoms similar to smallpox, though milder, Its symptoms were fever, headache, muscle aches, swollen lymph nodes, and a distinctive rash that progresses to pustules and scabs.

    While it described diphtheria as a serious bacterial infection that affects the mucous membranes of the throat and nose, its symptoms were sore throat, fever, swollen glands, and a thick grey or white coating in the throat that can block airways and cause difficulty in breathing.

    The agency also confirmed that seven yellow fever cases have been detected in six states, Abia, Anambra, Edo, Ekiti, Lagos, and Rivers, noting that while no deaths have been recorded, a single confirmed case constitutes an outbreak under international health regulations.

    “The yellow fever vaccine remains the most effective prevention strategy,” it said.

    The NCDC urged the public to get vaccinated and called on state governments to scale up immunisation campaigns.

    The public health agency further revealed the confirmation of a dengue fever outbreak in Edo State between June 9 and 13, following laboratory investigations.

    “Both dengue and yellow fever are mosquito-borne viral diseases transmitted primarily by the Aedes species, which are rapidly spreading due to poor sanitation and climate-related factors,” it added.

    To curb transmission, the NCDC advised Nigerians to eliminate mosquito breeding sites, use insecticide-treated nets, and apply insect repellents.

    It also warned against self-medication for febrile illnesses, as symptoms of dengue and yellow fever often mimic malaria.

    “Nigeria is already experiencing a rising incidence of cholera, while yellow fever and dengue fever are beginning to be detected in some states.

    “This is also occurring at a time when the country is contending with ongoing outbreaks of Mpox and diphtheria,” it said.

    The agency assured that it is coordinating a robust national response with support from the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA), state governments, and partners.

    This, it said includes deploying rapid response teams, strengthening laboratory and surveillance systems, and scaling up risk communication and community engagement efforts.

    Citizens were urged to maintain high levels of hygiene, avoid open defecation, treat drinking water, and seek immediate medical attention if symptoms such as severe diarrhoea, fever, joint pain, or rash occur.

    The NCDC also called on health workers to remain alert, maintain a high index of suspicion for emerging diseases, and report cases promptly, as dengue fever is a notifiable disease under Nigerian law.

    “Nigerians must act now to prevent further loss of lives,” the Centre warned.

    It stressed that the battle against these diseases requires collective action across all levels of society.

  • Nigeria records 145 Lassa fever deaths, as fatality rate increases

    Nigeria records 145 Lassa fever deaths, as fatality rate increases

    Nigeria has recorded 145 deaths from Lassa fever as of 2025 Epidemiological Week 25, with a case fatality rate (CFR) of 18.6 per cent.

    The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC), disclosed this in its latest report via its official website on Saturday in Abuja.

    The NCDC said the week 25 figure marks an increase from 17.6 per cent reported for the same period in 2024.

    The report, which covered the week of June 16–22, revealed that 781 confirmed cases were reported out of 5,943 suspected cases across 20 states and 101 Local Government Areas (LGAs).

    In the current reporting week, 10 new confirmed cases were reported in Ondo and Edo states with a slight increase from the eight cases recorded the previous week.

    According to NCDC, 91 per cent of all confirmed cases in 2025 were reported from five states of Ondo (31%), Bauchi (24%), Edo (17%), Taraba (16%) and Ebonyi (3%).

    It said that the disease continues to affect young adults predominantly, within the 21 to 30 age group most impacted. Males were slightly more affected, with a male-to-female ratio of 1:0.8.

    The Nigerian public health agency, said that despite a decline in the overall number of suspected and confirmed cases compared to 2024, the rise in CFR is raising concerns among health experts.

    The agency highlighted late presentation of cases, high treatment costs, and poor health-seeking behaviour as contributing factors to the increased fatality.

    It said that no new infections among health workers were recorded in the reporting week, though 23 healthcare workers have been affected cumulatively this year.

    The NCDC said it is currently in collaboration with partners, such as the World Health Organisation (WHO), the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (US CDC), ALIMA, the Institute of Human Virology Nigeria (IHVN) and others.

    The collaborations, it stated further have intensified multi-sectoral response efforts to combat the spread of Lassa fever.

    It said that, as part of these efforts, Integrate clinical trials are currently ongoing in Ondo State, with After Action Reviews (AARs) conducted in both Ondo and Ebonyi to evaluate the response to the outbreak.

    The agency said that clinician sensitisation, community engagement activities and environmental response campaigns have been carried out in identified hotspot areas.

    In addition, the NCDC said that it has deployed 10 national rapid response teams to various states, adopting a one health approach to disease control.

    To further strengthen infection prevention and control (IPC), the agency launched an IPC e-learning platform and distributed updated Viral Hemorrhagic Fever (VHF) guidelines to health facilities across the country.

    The agency said that other efforts also included active contact tracing, surveillance, media engagement and geospatial risk mapping, alongside regular webinars for clinicians and capacity-building sessions nationwide.

    The NCDC identified key challenges including poor environmental sanitation and low community awareness, particularly in high-burden LGAs.

    It also said that sustained efforts were needed to curb the fatality rate, ensure early detection, and improve public health outcomes.

    The NCDC advised Nigerians to maintain proper hygiene, avoid contact with rodents, and seek medical help promptly when experiencing symptoms such as fever, sore throat, vomiting, or unexplained bleeding.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), reports that Lassa fever, which was first identified in 1969 in Lassa, Borno, is endemic in Nigeria, with outbreaks occurring annually.

    Symptoms range from mild fever and joint pain to severe bleeding from the nose, mouth, and gastrointestinal tract.

    The disease is fatal in about 20 per cent of cases, particularly when treatment is delayed.

    Across West Africa, hundreds of thousands are infected annually, experiencing symptoms such as fever, vomiting and, in severe cases, bleeding.

    One of the most troubling complications is hearing loss, which affects about 25 per cent of survivors.

    The estimated fatality rate is one per cent, but during outbreaks, mortality can rise significantly, particularly among pregnant women and healthcare workers.

    In spite its significant health impact, Lassa fever remains one of the most neglected diseases, with limited resources allocated to its preventions and treatments.

    Currently, no licensed vaccines exist, although around 20 candidates are in development, with the most advanced in Phase IIa clinical trials.

  • NCDC confirms two new deaths, surge rises to 145

    NCDC confirms two new deaths, surge rises to 145

    The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has confirmed two new deaths from Lassa fever, bringing the total number of fatalities in 2025 to 145.

    TheNewsGuru reports that the country continues to grapple with the viral hemorrhagic disease, which is currently affecting 18 states.

    The latest update, contained in the NCDC’s situation report for Epidemiological Week 24 (June 9–15), revealed that 766 cases have been confirmed out of 5,678 suspected infections.

    The agency noted that the case fatality rate has risen to 18.9%, a concerning increase from 17.6% recorded during the same period in 2024.

    Five states—Ondo, Bauchi, Edo, Taraba, and Ebonyi—account for 91% of all confirmed cases. Ondo alone is responsible for 31%, cementing its status as the epicentre of the outbreak.

    Despite a slight drop in new confirmed cases (eight cases compared to 11 the previous week), the NCDC expressed deep concern over the persistently high fatality rate. It attributed this to delayed case reporting, poor health-seeking behaviour, and unhygienic living conditions in high-risk communities.

    A previous report released by the agency on Tuesday, June 17, confirmed that a health worker in Osun State had also been infected.

    In response, the NCDC has intensified its containment efforts, deploying Rapid Response Teams to 10 affected states. Other measures include public health education campaigns, environmental sanitation drives, and the training of healthcare workers in vulnerable regions.

    The agency has also scaled down its Incident Management System to alert mode and is integrating Lassa fever awareness into broader disease prevention campaigns.

    Lassa fever is a viral hemorrhagic illness primarily transmitted through contact with urine or faeces of infected rats. It can also spread between humans through bodily fluids, contaminated objects, or medical equipment. Symptoms include fever, sore throat, vomiting, headache, muscle pain, and in severe cases, internal bleeding.

    The NCDC continues to urge Nigerians to maintain good hygiene, avoid contact with rodents, and seek immediate medical attention at designated treatment centres when symptoms such as fever, bleeding, or headaches occur.

    “The public is also encouraged to follow NCDC advisories and call the toll-free line 6232 for inquiries or emergency support,” the agency stated.

  • Nigeria records 145 Lassa fever deaths

    Nigeria records 145 Lassa fever deaths

    The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has confirmed 145 deaths from Lassa fever in 2025, as the country continues to battle the viral hemorrhagic disease across 18 states.

    According to the latest situation report released on Friday by the NCDC for epidemiological week 24 (June 9–15), the country recorded 766 confirmed cases from 5,678 suspected infections.

    The case fatality rate stood at 18.9 per cent, up from 17.6 per cent during the same period in 2024.

    The agency said that the states most affected were Ondo, Bauchi, Edo, Taraba, and Ebonyi, which accounted for 91 per cent of the confirmed cases.

    It said that Ondo alone contributed 31 per cent making it the epicentre of the outbreak.

    In spite a decline in new confirmed cases — down to eight from 11 the previous week — the Nigerian public health agency said that health authorities remained concerned about the high fatality rate.

    The agency said that this was driven by late presentation of cases, poor health-seeking behaviour, and unsanitary living conditions in high-burden communities.

    According to it, efforts to contain the outbreak have included the deployment of Rapid Response Teams to 10 states, risk communication, environmental sanitation campaigns, and training of health workers in high-risk areas.

    The NCDC also de-escalated its Incident Management System to alert mode while integrating Lassa fever messages into wider disease awareness campaigns.

    The agency has appealed to the public to avoid contact with rodents and to seek prompt medical care at designated treatment centres at the first sign of symptoms such as fever, headache, or bleeding.

    The agency continues to urge Nigerians to maintain hygiene, report symptoms early, and avoid contact with rodents and their secretions.

    “The public is also encouraged to follow NCDC advisories and utilise the toll-free line 6232 for inquiries,” it said.

    Lassa fever is a viral hemorrhagic disease transmitted primarily through contact with the urine or faeces of infected rats.

    It can also spread from person to person through bodily fluids, contaminated objects, or infected medical equipment.

    Symptoms include fever, sore throat, headache, vomiting, muscle pain, and in severe cases, bleeding from the body openings.

  • Lassa fever death rate rises as cases spread – NCDC

    Lassa fever death rate rises as cases spread – NCDC

    The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has reported a rise in the fatality rate of Lassa fever, as the disease continues to spread across states with new confirmed cases and more deaths.

    The NCDC disclosed this in its latest situation report for Epidemiological Week 23, June 2–8, 2025, which was posted on its official website on Wednesday.

    According to the agency, Nigeria has recorded 143 deaths from 758 confirmed Lassa fever cases so far this year.

    This translates to a case fatality rate (CFR) of 18.9 per cent, higher than the 17.8 per cent recorded during the same period in 2024.

    The NCDC also revealed that 11 new confirmed cases were reported in the week under review, up from eight cases recorded the previous week. The new cases were detected in Ondo, Edo, Bauchi, and Taraba States.

    “In 2025, 18 states have recorded at least one confirmed case of Lassa fever, spread across 96 Local Government Areas.

    However, 90 per cent of all confirmed cases were reported from just five states: Ondo 31 per cent, Bauchi 25 per cent, Edo 16 per cent, Taraba 15 per cent, and Ebonyi 3 per cent,” the report stated.

    The agency noted that the age group most affected remained young adults aged 21 to 30 years, with a median age of 30.

    It also reported one new healthcare worker infection in the reporting week, bringing the total number of affected health workers in 2025 to 23.

    The NCDC identified several challenges fueling the outbreak, including late presentation of cases, poor health-seeking behaviour, and high cost of treatment, inadequate sanitation, and low awareness in affected communities.

    To curb the spread and reduce deaths, the agency said it had activated a multi-sectoral Incident Management System and deployed 10 Rapid Response Teams to states with the highest burden.

    Additional response measures included the training of health workers on case management, the launch of Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) e-learning platform, community sensitisation campaigns, environmental response interventions, and media outreach in collaboration with stakeholders.

    The NCDC urged Nigerians to maintain high hygiene standards, seek medical attention early when symptomatic, and avoid contact with rodents and their droppings, known vectors of the disease.

    Lassa fever is a viral hemorrhagic disease transmitted primarily through contact with the urine or faeces of infected rats.

  • Lassa fever, meningitis kill 366 in 24 States – NCDC

    Lassa fever, meningitis kill 366 in 24 States – NCDC

    The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention has reported a total of 366 deaths from Lassa fever and meningitis in 24 states of the federation.

    The NCDC via its official website on Friday, highlighted the continued public health challenge posed by these diseases.

    From Jan. 1 to May 18, the centre confirmed 733 cases of Lassa fever from 5,118 suspected infections across 18 states and 95 local government areas.

    Within the same period, it said it recorded 141 Lassa fever-related deaths, representing a case fatality rate of 19.2 per cent.

    The NCDC said that in week 20 alone, new infections jumped from three to 13 cases in Edo, Ondo, and Benue.

    “The case fatality rate stands at 19.2 per cent slightly higher than 18.3 per cent in 2024, indicating that one in five people infected is dying, inspite of  coordinated national efforts,” the NCDC warned.

    It said that the hotspot states for Lassa fever include Ondo 30 per cent Bauchi (25%), and Edo 17 per cent which together account for 72 per cent of all confirmed cases.

    The centre said that the disease was hitting young adults hardest, particularly those aged 21 to 30 years, with a nearly equal male-to-female ratio.

    It noted that no new healthcare worker infections were reported in the past week, but highlighted a surge in cases and called for heightened vigilance.

    The agency said that a multi-sectoral Incident Management System has been activated to coordinate response efforts nationwide.

    On the meningitis front, the centre said the figures were even more alarming.

    The NCDC said that from 2,911 suspected cases, 192 have been confirmed and 225 lives lost, translating to a case fatality rate of 7.7 per cent.

    The agency said that children aged five to 14 were the most affected, with males accounting for 60 per cent of all reported infections.

    It said that the outbreak has reached 24 states and 173 LGAs, with 10 northern states—including Kebbi, Katsina, Sokoto, and Jigawa—reporting 97 per cent of suspected cases.

    In response, the NCDC has activated a national Emergency Operations Centre to coordinate interventions in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Health, the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA), the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet), and development partners.

    It said that regular high-level meetings with affected states were ongoing to streamline containment strategies.

    “We are providing continuous technical support to high-burden states and reinforcing outbreak preparedness across the country,” the NCDC said.

    Lassa fever is a viral hemorrhagic disease transmitted primarily through contact with the urine or faeces of infected rats.

    It can also spread from person to person through bodily fluids, contaminated objects, or infected medical equipment.

    Symptoms include fever, sore throat, headache, vomiting, muscle pain, and in severe cases, bleeding from body openings.

  • Infection spreads to 18 States as Lassa fever claims 138 lives

    Infection spreads to 18 States as Lassa fever claims 138 lives

    The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC), says Lassa fever has claimed 138 lives between January till date with a 19.3 per cent case fatality rate.

    This is according to the NCDC latest situation report shared via its official website. The report says the figure is a rise from the 18.0 per cent recorded within the same period in 2024.

    The reports also said that a total of 717 confirmed cases have been recorded as of Epi Week 18, with four new states (Ondo, Edo, Bauchi, and Benue) reporting cases in the current week alone.

    The public health agency said that while the number of new confirmed cases slightly decreased from 11 to 10 in the past week, the overall death toll remained alarming.

    The report noted that 71 per cent of all confirmed cases originated from three states Ondo, 30 per cent, Bauchi, 25 per cent and Taraba, 16 per cent signaling persistent hotspots in spite of nationwide interventions.

    It added that the most affected age group was 21–30 years, with the male gender appearing slightly more affected than the female with a male-to-female ratio of 1:0.8.

    The agency however said that no healthcare worker was infected in the current week, though 22 healthcare workers have been affected so far this year.

    The report disclosed that the NCDC had activated a multi-partner, multi-sectoral Incident Management System and deployed 10 Rapid Response Teams across affected states.

    It said that the agency had also intensified contact tracing, community sensitisation, and distributed essential commodities like PPES, Ribavirin, body bags, and disinfectants.

    This it said is in collaboration with international partners such as the WHO, MSF, CEPI, and Georgetown University.

    The country has conducted multiple webinars, capacity-building trainings, and surveillance activities to combat the outbreak.

    However, the public health agency described that challenges to the responses were hampered by late presentation of cases, poor health-seeking behaviour, and low awareness levels in high-burden areas.

    It also said that poor environmental sanitation contributed to disease spread.

    The agency continues to urge Nigerians to maintain hygiene, report symptoms early, and avoid contact with rodents and their secretions.

    ”The public is also encouraged to follow NCDC advisories and utilise the toll-free line 6232 for inquiries,” it said.

    Lassa fever is a viral hemorrhagic disease transmitted primarily through contact with the urine or faeces of infected rats.

    It can also spread from person to person through bodily fluids, contaminated objects, or infected medical equipment.

    Symptoms include fever, sore throat, headache, vomiting, muscle pain, and in severe cases, bleeding from body openings.