Lassa Fever: 1,000 Cases, 237 Deaths Recorded in Nigeria

 

Lassa Fever: Nigeria Records 1,000 Cases, 237 Deaths as Outbreak Spreads

Nigeria’s Lassa fever outbreak has reached a major and worrying milestone, with 1,000 confirmed cases and 237 deaths recorded in the country so far in 2026.

The latest figures from the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC), covering the first 30 epidemiological weeks of the year, show that the disease has been reported across 23 states and 116 local government areas.

The latest situation report showed that Nigeria recorded 17 new confirmed cases during epidemiological week 30, compared with 20 cases in the previous week.

The new cases were reported in Ondo, Bauchi, Edo and Benue states, according to the NCDC data.

Death Toll Rises to 237

The cumulative number of deaths linked to confirmed Lassa fever cases has risen to 237, putting the case-fatality rate at 23.7 per cent.

The latest figure is particularly concerning because the fatality rate is higher than the rate recorded during the corresponding period in 2025.

Reports based on the latest NCDC data also indicate that 53 healthcare workers have been infected with Lassa fever this year, underlining the risk faced by medical personnel treating patients during outbreaks.

Five States Account for Most Cases

The outbreak has not affected all parts of the country equally.

Ondo, Bauchi, Taraba, Edo and Benue account for the large majority of confirmed cases recorded so far this year. People aged between 21 and 30 years remain the most affected age group, according to the NCDC situation report.

Health Authorities Remain on Alert

Lassa fever is a viral disease that is endemic in parts of West Africa, including Nigeria. It is primarily associated with exposure to food or household items contaminated by infected rodents.

Health authorities continue to encourage Nigerians to maintain good hygiene, keep food properly stored, control rodents around homes and seek medical attention when symptoms that could indicate Lassa fever develop.

Early detection and treatment remain important in reducing the risk of severe illness and death.

With the number of confirmed cases now reaching 1,000 and deaths standing at 237, health authorities are continuing surveillance and response efforts across affected states.

PrimeNews247 will continue to monitor the situation and provide verified updates as new information becomes available.