The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has confirmed 80 deaths from 413 Lassa fever cases across 11 states during Epidemiological Week 6 (Feb. 3–9, 2025).

According to the latest Lassa Fever Situation Report, the case fatality rate (CFR) has surged to 19.4%, up from 17.5% in the same period last year.

Ondo, Edo, and Bauchi states accounted for 73% of confirmed cases, with Ondo recording the highest at 34%, followed by Edo (21%) and Bauchi (18%).

A total of 63 local government areas across 11 states have recorded confirmed cases, according to the NCDC.

“Despite a decline in new cases from 68 in Week 5 to 54 in Week 6, the agency remains concerned about the high fatality rate.

“The most affected age group is 21 to 30 years, with a male-to-female ratio of 1:0.8.”

While no new healthcare worker infections were reported this week, the NCDC noted that delayed case presentations have contributed to the rising fatality rate.

Key challenges in containing the outbreak NCDC has identified poor health-seeking behavior, high treatment costs, and limited awareness in high-burden communities as major challenges in tackling the ongoing Lassa fever outbreak.

To address the outbreak, the NCDC had activated the National Lassa Fever Multi-Sectoral Incident Management System (IMS) to coordinate efforts.

“The key interventions include deployment of National Rapid Response Teams (NRRT) to Gombe, Nasarawa, and Benue.

“The interventions also involve training healthcare workers in Lassa fever case management in Bauchi, Ebonyi, and Benue, enhanced surveillance, and contact tracing in affected states.

“Additionally, there will be distribution of response commodities such as personal protective equipment (PPEs), Ribavirin, thermometers, and body bags, along with community sensitization and risk communication campaigns in hotspot areas.”

The NCDC has reiterated its collaboration with the World Health Organisation (WHO), Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF), and the International Research Centre of Excellence (IRCE) to strengthen diagnosis, treatment, and outbreak response for Lassa fever.

“As the Lassa fever season peaks, we are intensifying case management training, enhancing rapid response coordination, and reinforcing infection prevention measures to curb the outbreak’s spread,” the agency stated.

It further disclosed plans for a nationwide rodent control and community awareness campaign in partnership with Breakthrough Action Nigeria (BA-N) and other stakeholders.

Preventive measures and public advisory

The agency also urged Nigerians to take preventive measures, including maintaining proper hygiene, avoiding contact with rodent droppings, and seeking medical attention early if they experience symptoms such as fever, sore throat, or unexplained bleeding.

“For real-time updates and safety guidelines, the NCDC advises Nigerians to visit www.ncdc.gov.ng or call the toll-free line: 6232,” it added.

The NCDC has reiterated that Lassa fever is preventable and urged Nigerians to take proactive steps to minimize their risk of infection.

One of the key preventive measures, according to the agency, is proper food storage.

“Store food in sealed containers to prevent contamination by rats,” the NCDC advised. Keeping homes clean and eliminating rodent hiding places is also essential in reducing exposure.

The agency further emphasized the importance of good hygiene practices.

“Regular handwashing with soap and water helps prevent the spread of infection,” it stated.

Additionally, it warned against bush burning, which forces rats into homes and increases the likelihood of transmission.

Early detection remains critical in managing Lassa fever. “If you experience symptoms such as fever, weakness, or bleeding, seek medical attention immediately at a health facility,” the NCDC advised.

It encouraged Nigerians to stay informed and take necessary precautions to protect themselves and their loved ones.

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control has made alarming discoveries in its ongoing enforcement operation at the Idumota open drug market in Lagos.

The agency uncovered unregistered narcotics, counterfeit GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) medicines, and vaccines improperly stored, with some shockingly found in toilets.  

This was revealed in a statement shared on X (formerly Twitter) on Thursday. The statement reads, “In the ongoing enforcement operation at the Idumota open drug market, NAFDAC has uncovered more alarming products, including unregistered narcotics, counterfeit GSK medicines, and vaccines stored in toilets.  

“During an operation on Tuesday, officials also seized expired USAID-donated condoms, which had been repackaged and sold under the name “Kiss Condom.”

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The statement added, “More from the Idumota enforcement exercise, NAFDAC officials have seized, “Banned drugs such as Analgin, Vaccines meant for cold chain storage, Oxytocin for maternal health, improperly stored outside the cold chain and donated medical products.” 

NAFDAC has vowed to continue its crackdown on counterfeit and substandard medicines, emphasizing the grave health risks posed by these illicit products. The enforcement operation remains ongoing as officials work to dismantle illegal drug networks and ensure compliance with safety regulations.

Kano State Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, has signed into law the establishment of the state’s Disease Control Agency and the State Security Agency.

The governor signed the bills on Tuesday during the State Executive Council meeting held at the Kano Government House.

Additionally, the governor approved amendments to the law governing the Kano State Transport Agency.

The signing followed the Kano State House of Assembly’s approval of the bills.

During the same Executive Council meeting, Governor Abba honored students from science and technology secondary schools who excelled in various scientific and technological fields.

Among the awardees were Jafar Sani Muhd, who secured first place from Gwale Local Government Area, and Aminu Ado Abubakar, who came second, also from Gwale. Mustapha Nasir Mukhtar, from Bichi Local Government Area, secured third place.

Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf presented the students with various gifts, including computers.

The governor’s spokesperson, Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, also presented to Governor Yusuf the 2024 Kano State Government’s work plan.

Furthermore, Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf received honorary awards from various organizations and institutions, including one from the Bishop Idahosa Foundation.