Nigeria is ramping up its response to a deadly Lassa fever outbreak, which has led to 98 deaths and 535 confirmed cases across 14 states since the beginning of the year. The current case fatality rate stands at 18.3%.
Health authorities have reported that a patient, who had recently traveled to the United Kingdom, died from Lassa fever after returning to Nigeria. This has prompted cross-border contact tracing efforts between the UK and Nigeria.
The Nigerian Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) has issued a renewed alert, calling for heightened vigilance and preventive measures, particularly among healthcare workers and those in regions affected by the outbreak. The NCDC stresses the importance of early medical intervention, stating that prompt diagnosis and treatment significantly improve survival rates.
Lassa fever is primarily transmitted through contact with food or household items contaminated by rodent urine or feces, and can also spread through bodily fluids.
The outbreak has been most severe in the states of Ondo, Bauchi, Edo, Taraba, and Ebonyi. Symptoms include fever, headaches, and, in severe cases, death.
Last year, Nigeria recorded 190 fatalities due to Lassa fever and has now activated an emergency response center to tackle the ongoing crisis.