As of September 17th, 2023, the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has reported a total of 1,068 Lassa fever infections across 112 local government areas in 28 states of the federation.
The NCDC released this information via its official website on Tuesday, as part of its Lassa Fever Situation Report for Week 37 (September 11th-17th) of 2023.
The NCDC has reported that 75% of all Lassa fever cases have been detected in Ondo, Edo, and Bauchi States, with the predominant age group affected being 21-30 years (Range: 1 to 93 years, Median Age: 32 years).
The male-to-female ratio for confirmed cases is 1:0.9.
Lassa fever is a viral haemorrhagic fever caused by the Lassa virus, primarily found in West Africa, particularly in Sierra Leone, Liberia, Guinea, and Nigeria.
The virus is transmitted to humans through contact with the urine or faeces of infected rodents, specifically the multimammate rat.
According to the NCDC, there are currently 7,352 individuals with suspected cases of Lassa fever, and the infection has resulted in the unfortunate loss of at least 181 lives in the country.
The case-fatality ratio of the infection stands at 16.9%, which is lower than the CFR for the same period in 2022 (19.1%).
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Cumulatively from week 1 to week 37 of 2023, 181 deaths have been reported with a case fatality rate of 16.9%.
In total, 28 States have recorded at least one confirmed case across 112 local government areas.
Of the 75% confirmed cases, Ondo reported 35%, Edo 29%, and Bauchi 11%, while 25% were reported from 25 states with confirmed Lassa fever cases.
Unfortunately, in 2023, Lassa fever has infected 49 healthcare workers across the country.
In response to this, the National Lassa Fever Multi-partner, Multi-sectoral Emergency Operations Centre has been activated to coordinate the response activities at all levels.
The NCDC said that prevention of Lassa fever involves avoiding contact with rodents and their droppings, practising good personal hygiene, and taking precautions when caring for infected individuals.
Early diagnosis and prompt medical care are crucial in managing the disease and preventing complications.
