The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention has reported that Lassa fever has claimed 214 lives in 2026, with the fatality rate increasing to 25 per cent from 18.9 per cent during the same period last year.
The outbreak has spread across 23 states and 109 Local Government Areas, with Ondo, Bauchi, Taraba, Edo and Benue accounting for the majority of confirmed cases. Health officials have expressed concern over the continued spread of the disease despite ongoing response efforts.
Health experts have continued to urge Nigerians to maintain proper hygiene and take preventive measures against rodent infestations, which are a major source of Lassa fever transmission. The NCDC also encouraged early reporting of symptoms and prompt medical attention, stressing that timely treatment can significantly improve survival rates among infected persons.
Public health authorities are intensifying awareness campaigns in affected communities while strengthening surveillance systems to detect and respond to new cases more effectively.
