Lassa Fever Outbreak Causes Fear Across 16 Nigerian States

The recent Lassa fever outbreak has claimed numerous lives and affected many states across Nigeria, sparking fear and sorrow among communities. Over 100 cases and 20 deaths were reported in the span of one week across 16 states, according to the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC).

Lassa fever, an acute viral hemorrhagic illness, is transmitted through contact with contaminated food or household items, as well as through infected persons. Symptoms include fever, headache, sore throat, weakness, cough, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, muscle pain, chest pain, and in severe cases, unexplained bleeding from various body openings.

The affected states include Ondo, Bauchi, Edo, Benue, Ebonyi, Kogi, Kaduna, Taraba, Enugu, Delta, Jigawa, Adamawa, Anambra, Rivers, Ogun, and Oyo. The NCDC has activated its multi-partner, multi-sectoral incident management system to coordinate the response at all levels.

Ondo, Edo, and Bauchi states account for 62% of confirmed cases, with the remaining 38% spread across other affected states. From weeks one to nine of 2024, Nigeria recorded 682 confirmed cases and 128 deaths with a case fatality rate (CFR) of 18.8%, higher than the same period last year.

The Federal Medical Centre (FMC) in Jalingo, Taraba State, confirmed 19 deaths from Lassa fever between January and February this year. The state Ministry of Health is closely monitoring the situation in collaboration with the NCDC and FMC Jalingo authorities to contain the spread.

Benue State also reported 46 Lassa fever cases and nine deaths in seven local government areas. The state epidemiologist noted that the infection rate is higher than last year’s, and efforts are underway to contain the outbreak.

Ebonyi State has experienced 14 deaths out of 29 confirmed cases, with additional reports indicating an increase in Lassa fever cases in the state.

Meanwhile, Kaduna State reported five deaths due to the Lassa fever outbreak. Medical experts traced the origin of the disease to Plateau State, North Central Nigeria, in the village of Lassa.

To combat the spread, experts stress the importance of public education on prevention and maintaining proper hygiene. This includes safe food storage and reducing rat populations. The NCDC and state health agencies are working to increase awareness and provide support to affected areas.

Lassa fever remains a significant public health challenge in Nigeria, and ongoing efforts are essential to control the outbreak and save lives.