Here’s a quick rundown of what you’ll find in this article:
- Grim Toll: Taraba State leads in Lassa fever deaths.
- Nationwide Impact: Spread across 15 states.
- Key Stats: Cases, fatalities, and affected demographics.
- Response Efforts: NCDC’s strategies and coordination.
- Prevention Tips: How you can protect yourself and your family.
Lassa Fever Crisis: Taraba State Suffers Highest Casualties
The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has revealed that Taraba State is the epicenter of Lassa fever fatalities in 2025. A staggering 34 deaths have been reported in Taraba, contributing to the 138 deaths recorded nationwide.
Nationwide Spread: Lassa Fever Affects 15 States
The outbreak spans across 15 states, indicating a widespread health challenge. States reporting fatalities include:
- Taraba (34)
- Ondo (27)
- Edo (19)
- Bauchi (15)
- Ebonyi (11)
- Gombe (7)
- Plateau (5)
- Benue (5)
- Kogi (4)
- Nasarawa (4)
- Delta (2)
- Kaduna (2)
- Ogun (1)
- Enugu (1)
- Cross River (1)
Key Statistics: Cases and Fatality Rates
As of May 4, 2025, the NCDC reports:
- 717 confirmed cases out of 4,881 suspected cases.
- Cases reported across 93 local government areas in 18 states.
- Overall Case Fatality Rate (CFR) at 19.3%, slightly higher than 2024 (18.0%).
Hotspot States: Ondo, Bauchi, and Taraba
A significant 71% of confirmed Lassa fever cases originate from Ondo, Bauchi, and Taraba States:
- Ondo: 30%
- Bauchi: 25%
- Taraba: 16%
The remaining 28% of cases are scattered across 15 other states.
Who’s at Risk? Age and Demographics
The most affected age group is 21–30 years, with ages ranging from 1 to 96 years. The median age of confirmed cases is 30 years, and the male-to-female ratio is 1:0.8.
NCDC’s Response: Coordinating Efforts Nationwide
The National Lassa Fever Multi-Partner, Multi-Sectoral Incident Management System is actively coordinating response efforts at all levels to control and mitigate the outbreak.
Understanding Lassa Fever: Transmission and Prevention
Lassa fever is typically transmitted to humans via contact with food or household items contaminated with urine or feces of infected Mastomys rats. Person-to-person transmission can also occur, particularly in hospital settings lacking adequate infection control measures. (Source: CDC)
Preventive Measures: How to Stay Safe
Here are some crucial steps to protect yourself and your community:
- Maintain Hygiene: Keep your home clean to discourage rodents.
- Safe Food Storage: Store food in rodent-proof containers.
- Avoid Contact: Avoid contact with rodents and their droppings.
- Handwashing: Regularly wash your hands with soap and water.
- Healthcare Precautions: Ensure healthcare facilities follow strict infection control protocols.
Looking Ahead: Combating Lassa Fever in Nigeria
The fight against Lassa fever requires a coordinated effort from government agencies, healthcare providers, and the public. By staying informed and taking preventive measures, we can collectively reduce the impact of this deadly disease.