The update, issued by the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC), shows that the situation remains severe, particularly in several high-burden states where transmission has remained persistent.
According to the agency’s latest epidemiological report, the case fatality rate rose to 25.2 percent in April, a significant increase compared to 19.1 percent recorded during the same period in 2025. Health officials say this indicates that a larger proportion of infected patients are dying despite confirmed diagnoses.
Delayed Treatment and Low Health-Seeking Behavior Driving Deaths
The NCDC attributed the worsening fatality rate largely to late presentation of cases at health facilities and poor health-seeking behavior in affected communities, particularly in rural and underserved areas.
Officials explained that many patients arrive for treatment only when the disease has progressed to severe stages, reducing the chances of survival even with medical intervention.
Over 3,000 Suspected Cases Across 23 States
Between January and April alone, Nigeria recorded 663 confirmed cases out of more than 3,220 suspected infections spread across 105 local government areas in 23 states.
The outbreak has not been evenly distributed. Five states—Edo State, Ondo State, Bauchi State, Benue State, and Taraba State—account for more than 84 percent of all confirmed cases, underscoring persistent regional hotspots.
Health data also shows that individuals aged 21 to 30 years have been the most affected demographic group, raising concerns about the impact on Nigeria’s young working-age population.
Public Health Challenges Persist in High-Risk Communities
Authorities say the outbreak continues to be fueled by poor sanitation conditions, limited awareness of preventive measures, and delays in accessing medical care.
These challenges are particularly pronounced in densely populated and rural communities where healthcare access is limited and early symptoms are often ignored or misdiagnosed.
National Response System Activated
In response to the growing outbreak, the NCDC confirmed that a multi-sectoral incident management system has been activated to coordinate surveillance, treatment, and community engagement efforts across affected regions.
The system brings together federal and state health agencies, partners, and emergency response teams to improve case detection and reduce transmission.
Understanding Lassa Fever and Its Transmission
The disease at the center of the outbreak, Lassa fever, is an acute viral hemorrhagic illness primarily transmitted through contact with food or household items contaminated by rodent urine or feces.
Human-to-human transmission is also possible, particularly in healthcare settings or through direct contact with bodily fluids of infected individuals, making infection control measures critical in hospitals and communities.
A Broader Public Health Concern
With a population exceeding 242 million, Nigeria remains Africa’s most populous nation and one of the most affected countries globally when it comes to Lassa fever outbreaks.
Health authorities continue to stress the importance of early presentation to health facilities, improved hygiene practices, and stronger community awareness campaigns as key tools in reducing both infection rates and deaths in the coming months.