Nigeria has reported 177 deaths from Lassa fever between January and early November 2025, according to the latest update from the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC).
The NCDC Epidemiological Situation Report shows that as of Week 44 (ending November 2, 2025), Nigeria has confirmed 966 cases across 21 states and 102 Local Government Areas (LGAs). The case fatality rate (CFR) now stands at 18.3%, up from 16.5% during the same period in 2024, highlighting a concerning trend in the nation’s fight against this deadly viral disease.
Understanding Lassa Fever
Lassa fever is an acute viral hemorrhagic illness caused by the Lassa virus, which is primarily transmitted through exposure to food or household items contaminated with the urine or feces of infected Mastomys rats. The disease is endemic in West Africa, including Nigeria, Benin, Ghana, Guinea, Liberia, Mali, Sierra Leone, and Togo, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).
Recent Trends and Affected Areas
The NCDC noted a slight increase in new confirmed cases, rising from 11 in Week 43 to 12 in Week 44, with infections reported in Ondo, Edo, and Benue states.
Ongoing Response Efforts
The national multi-partner, multi-sectoral Lassa fever Technical Working Group continues to coordinate response activities across all levels, as Nigeria battles one of its most persistent and deadly infectious diseases.
The NCDC emphasizes the importance of public vigilance, including proper food storage, rodent control, and early medical consultation for suspected symptoms, to prevent further spread of Lassa fever.
