Nigeria Records 172 Lassa Fever Deaths in 9 Months

172 Die from Lassa Fever

“In week 39, the number of new confirmed cases increased from four in epidemiology...”

Lassa Fever Outbreak - 68% of Cases in Ondo, Edo, Bauchi; 32% Spread Across 25 Nigerian States

Lassa fever is a severe viral illness, characterized by hemorrhaging, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). The Lassa virus, belonging to the arenavirus family, causes this acute disease. The primary transmission route involves contact with contaminated food or household items, specifically through the urine or feces of infected Mastomys rats.

The disease is widespread among rodent populations in West Africa, particularly in countries like Benin, Ghana, Guinea, Liberia, Mali, Sierra Leone, Togo, and Nigeria. However, its presence is likely more extensive, potentially affecting other nations in the region.

The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has released its latest Lassa fever situation report, revealing a significant number of cases and fatalities across the country. From January 1 to September 29, 2024, there were 8,411 suspected cases, with 1,018 confirmed cases of Lassa fever reported across 28 states and 128 local government areas. Unfortunately, this outbreak has resulted in 172 deaths, translating to a case fatality rate (CFR) of 16.9 percent.

Lassa Fever Outbreak Overview

• Confirmed Cases: 1,018
• Suspected Cases: 8,411
• Affected States: 28
• Local Government Areas: 128
• Deaths: 172
• Case Fatality Rate (CFR): 16.9%

Lassa fever is an acute viral hemorrhagic disease caused by the Lassa virus, primarily transmitted to humans through direct contact with infected Mastomys rodents or contaminated food and household items. The disease is endemic in Nigeria and parts of West Africa, with a higher risk of transmission during the dry season. The NCDC's report highlights the need for continued vigilance and proactive measures to prevent and control the spread of Lassa fever.

Prevention Measures

• Store grain and other food in rodent-proof containers
• Dispose of garbage away from homes
• Keep homes clean
• Keep cats in the home to help control rodent populations 

By taking these precautions and staying informed, we can work together to reduce the risk of Lassa fever transmission and protect public health.

“Person-to-person infections and laboratory transmission can also occur, particularly in healthcare settings in the absence of adequate infection prevention and control measures,” WHO stated.

The report read partly, “In week 39, the number of new confirmed cases increased from four in epidemiology week 38, 2024 to nine. These were reported in Ondo and Edo States.

“Cumulatively from week one to 39, 2024, 172 deaths have been reported with a CFR of 16.9 per cent which is marginally higher than the CFR for the same period in 2023 (16.8 percent).

“In total for 2024, 28 states have recorded at least one confirmed case across 128 LGAS.”

About 68% of Nigeria's confirmed Lassa fever cases were found in just three states: Ondo, Edo, and Bauchi. The remaining 32% were scattered across 25 other states where the disease has been confirmed.

Breaking it down further:

Top 3 Affected States: 

 Ondo

 Edo

 Bauchi

Other Affected States: 25 states with confirmed cases, accounting for 32% of the total