NCDC confirms 13 new Lassa Fever cases in week 40

The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has confirmed 13 new cases of Lassa fever during the 40th epidemiological week, spanning September 29 to October 5, 2025.

In a situation report shared via its official X (formerly Twitter) handle, the NCDC stated that the latest cases were recorded in Ondo and Edo States—two of the regions most affected by the outbreak this year.

With these new infections, Nigeria’s total number of confirmed Lassa fever cases in 2025 has risen to 924, with 172 deaths reported across 21 states and 106 Local Government Areas (LGAs). The current Case Fatality Rate (CFR) stands at 18.6%, up from 17.0% during the same period in 2024.

The report also revealed that 117 new suspected cases were logged within the week, bringing the cumulative suspected cases for the year to 8,041.

According to the NCDC, over 90% of all confirmed cases to date have originated from five states: Ondo, Edo, Bauchi, Taraba, and Ebonyi—highlighting their continued status as outbreak hotspots.

The Centre reiterated its commitment to scaling up nationwide surveillance, laboratory testing, public awareness, and infection prevention and control efforts to mitigate the spread of the disease.

Health authorities urged the public to adopt preventive practices such as maintaining hygienic surroundings, keeping food away from rodents, and minimizing contact with rodents altogether.

They also advised individuals experiencing symptoms such as persistent fever, sore throat, chest pain, or vomiting to seek prompt medical attention at the nearest healthcare facility for timely diagnosis and treatment.

The NCDC emphasized that it is working closely with state health ministries, development partners, and community stakeholders to coordinate an effective response and provide care to those affected.

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