NCDC Logs 1,138 Lassa Fever Infections and 268 Deaths

The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has reported 1,138 confirmed Lassa fever cases and 268 deaths in 24 states, with the cumulative case fatality rate at 23.6 percent. In its Lassa Fever Situation Report for epidemiological weeks 39 and 40, spanning September 21 to October 4, 2026, the agency said the current fatality rate is higher than the 18.6 percent recorded in the same period of 2025. The report states that 119 Local Government Areas (LGAs) nationwide have reported at least one confirmed case. Bauchi, Ondo, Taraba, Benue, and Edo states were responsible for 88 percent of confirmed infections during the reporting period. According to NCDC demographic data, people aged 21 to 30 are the largest affected age group. No healthcare workers were newly infected during the two-week reporting window. Epidemiological week 40, which ran from September 28 to October 4, recorded three new confirmed cases in Bauchi and Benue states, down from 13 cases in week 39. In week 39, all 13 cases were identified in Ondo State. Lassa fever is an acute viral hemorrhagic illness transmitted mainly through contact with food or domestic items contaminated by urine or feces from infected rodents. Secondary transmission can also occur through direct contact with the bodily fluids of infected individuals, particularly in clinical settings where infection prevention protocols are not followed. Health authorities advise the public to maintain strict environmental sanitation, store food in rodent-proof containers, and reduce contact with rodents to lower infection risks.