Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.
Nigeria has recorded 1,115 confirmed cases of Lassa fever and 263 deaths across 24 states, with the disease’s case fatality rate rising to 23.6 per cent, according to the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC).
The figures were contained in the agency’s situation report for epidemiological week 38, covering September 14 to 20, 2026.
The report showed that the case fatality rate increased from 18.5 per cent recorded during the corresponding period in 2025, highlighting the continued public health burden of the disease.
Despite the rising cumulative figures, new infections declined during the week under review. The NCDC recorded 11 new confirmed cases, compared with 17 in the preceding week. The latest infections were reported in Ondo, Edo and Taraba states.
According to the agency, the 24 affected states accounted for confirmed infections across 119 local government areas. Five states — Bauchi, Ondo, Taraba, Benue and Edo — accounted for 87 per cent of all confirmed cases recorded during the period.
The report also identified people aged between 21 and 30 as the most affected age group. No new healthcare worker infection was recorded during the week under review.
Lassa fever is an acute viral disease primarily transmitted to humans through contact with food or household items contaminated by infected rodents. Transmission between people can also occur, particularly where adequate infection prevention and control measures are lacking.
The NCDC has advised residents to maintain clean surroundings, store food in tightly covered, rodent-proof containers and dispose of waste properly to reduce contact with rodents.
The agency also urged people experiencing symptoms such as fever, weakness and headache to seek medical attention promptly, while encouraging healthcare workers to maintain appropriate infection prevention and control practices.
The latest figures underscore the need for continued public awareness, early diagnosis and timely treatment as Nigeria sustains efforts to control the disease.
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