Lassa fever has killed 268 Nigerians this year
Nearly one in four confirmed patients has died, up from fewer than one in five last year. Health officials blame late arrival at hospital and the cost of treatment.
Abuja — Lassa fever has killed 268 people in Nigeria so far this year, and the share of confirmed patients who die has risen to 23.6%, according to the latest situation report from the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention, reported by Premium Times.
The figures cover the first 40 weeks of 2026, to 4 October.
This year against last
- Confirmed cases: 1,138, up from 924 in the same period of 2025.
- Deaths: 268, up from 172.
- Case fatality rate: 23.6%, up from 18.6%.
The most recent week was quieter, with three new confirmed cases, in Bauchi and Benue, down from 13 the week before. One of the three died.
Where it is
Cases have been confirmed in 24 states and 119 local government areas, but five states account for 88% of them: Ondo (36%), Bauchi (23%), Taraba (12%), Edo (11%) and Benue (6%).
People aged 21 to 30 are the most affected group. Fifty-four health workers have been infected this year, none of them in the latest week.
Why more people are dying
The agency points to patients reaching hospital late, the high cost of treatment and poor health-seeking habits in affected communities. It also lists poor sanitation and low awareness.
The response
With support from the World Health Organization and the US Centers for Disease Control, the agency has drawn up a 30-day plan to protect health workers in the worst-hit states. It has trained staff in infection control, sent out protective equipment, and deployed rapid response teams to seven states. In Edo and Ondo it is working with religious and traditional leaders.
How it spreads
Lassa fever is a viral haemorrhagic illness passed on mainly through food or household items contaminated by the urine or droppings of infected rats. It can also pass between people, particularly in health facilities without good infection control.
The agency's advice is to store food in rodent-proof containers, keep surroundings clean, avoid contact with rats, and seek medical help promptly if symptoms appear.
This report is based on reporting by Premium Times.
