Nigeria has recorded 190 deaths due to Lassa fever from January to December 2024, with 1,154 infections reported across six states.
In response, the government has established an emergency operations centre to manage the outbreak and enhance preparedness for future occurrences.
Lassa fever, primarily spread through contact with food or household items contaminated by rodent excreta, peaks between October and May due to increased human exposure to rodents during the dry season.
The virus can also spread between individuals through bodily fluids, with symptoms ranging from fever and headaches to severe cases leading to death.
The World Health Organisation identified Lassa fever as a priority disease due to its potential to cause epidemics and the absence of approved vaccines.
In Ebonyi State, 23 deaths have been reported out of 48 confirmed cases this year, with 394 suspected cases recorded.
Médecins Sans Frontières (Doctors Without Borders) recently transferred its Lassa fever support program to the state government after playing a key role in managing the outbreak.
Poor sanitation, limited awareness, and certain sociocultural practices are believed to contribute to the spread of the disease.
The emergency response centre aims to streamline efforts to control and mitigate future outbreaks.
