According to the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC), Lassa fever in Nigeria has killed 168 people in 21 states in 2025.
The NCDC reported 4,543 suspected cases, with 897 confirmed positive. The case fatality rate reached 18.7%, almost double the national target of below 10%.
Ondo, Edo, Taraba, and Bauchi remain the epicentres, accounting for 67% of confirmed cases. Ondo recorded the highest burden, followed by Edo and Bauchi.
Most infections occurred among people aged 21 to 40, Nigeria’s most economically active group.
Lassa fever in Nigeria, a viral haemorrhagic disease spread by rodents and human contact, peaks during the dry season but now occurs year-round.
Taraba and Bauchi recorded death rates above the national average. The NCDC said early treatment with ribavirin improves survival and urged Nigerians to adopt preventive steps. These include proper food storage, environmental hygiene, and avoiding rodents.
The agency stressed the need for stronger cooperation to stop the outbreak. It pledged to expand testing, support treatment centres, strengthen surveillance, and increase community awareness.
“Early medical intervention with ribavirin improves survival rates,” the NCDC said, urging citizens to seek care promptly.
