NCDC Sounds Alarm as Lassa Fever Cases Surge Nationwide

The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has raised the alarm over a rising number of Lassa fever cases across the country, urging state governments to urgently strengthen preparedness and response measures as the nation enters the peak of the dry-season transmission period.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, the agency noted a steady increase in infections, with an alarming number of healthcare workers among those affected. NCDC described the trend as “a critical concern,” highlighting gaps in infection prevention, delayed diagnosis, and inadequate surveillance at both state and facility levels as key drivers of continued transmission.

While the national Incident Coordination Centre and partners remain actively involved in response efforts, the NCDC stressed that state governments must take greater responsibility by enhancing disease surveillance, ensuring treatment centres are adequately prepared, and protecting frontline health workers.

The agency identified priority areas requiring immediate action, including closing operational gaps that fuel both community and healthcare-associated infections, improving coordination between state epidemiologists, ministries of health, and treatment centres, managing Lassa fever alongside other epidemic-prone diseases, and sustaining public awareness campaigns. These campaigns focus on hygiene, safe food storage, and early reporting of symptoms.

NCDC also issued a renewed public health advisory urging Nigerians to adopt preventive measures, including maintaining clean homes, preventing rodent infestations, avoiding bush burning that displaces rodents, and seeking early medical attention when symptoms appear.

Reaffirming its commitment to safeguarding public health, the agency said it will continue providing technical support, deploying rapid response teams, and sharing verified information with the public.