The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has reported a rise in Lassa fever cases during week 39 of 2024, with nine new cases confirmed in Ondo and Edo states.
This information was released on the NCDC’s official website in their latest Lassa Fever Situation Report.
The agency noted that the number of cases had increased compared to the previous week, where only four cases were recorded, bringing the total number of infections and deaths in 2024 to worrying levels.
According to the report, Lassa fever cases across Nigeria have surged, with 1,018 infections reported so far this year across 28 states.
“As of week 39 (September 23-29), 172 deaths have been reported, reflecting a slight increase in the Case Fatality Rate (CFR) to 16.9 per cent, compared to 16.8 per cent in the same period in 2023,” the report stated.
The new cases were found in Ondo and Edo states, which, along with Bauchi, account for the majority of Lassa fever infections in 2024. Ondo reported 28% of the total cases, followed by Edo with 23%, and Bauchi with 17%.
The NCDC disclosed that people aged between 31 and 40 are the most affected, with men and women equally impacted. The agency also noted that no healthcare workers had contracted the disease during this period, a positive sign amidst the rise in cases.
Despite efforts to control the spread of Lassa fever, the rising death toll remains a cause for concern. The NCDC pointed out that limited access to treatment poses a significant challenge in reducing fatalities.
The National Lassa Fever Technical Working Group (TWG) continues to coordinate response efforts, and alerts have been sent through the Nigeria Preparedness and Readiness Alert System (NPRAS) to strengthen ongoing actions.
Additionally, the NCDC’s partners have introduced various measures to support the fight against the disease.