NCDC Authenticates 168 Deaths Resulting From Lassa Fever

On Wednesday, the Nigeria Center for Disease Control and Prevention declared that there are now 7,973 suspected cases of Lassa fever in the nation, of which 982 have been confirmed.

From January to August 25, 2024, instances were reported in 127 Local Government Areas spread over 28 states. Additionally, data revealed that 168 deaths—including 17 probable deaths—had been reported, translating to a 17.1% case fatality rate.

According to the report, 34 healthcare professionals have been impacted thus far.

The agency has carried out the 2024 National Lassa Fever After Action Review workshop, hosted a multisectoral Lassa Fever webinar series, and participated in the LF Taskforce Secretariat Meeting with CEPI, among other initiatives, according to Dr. Jide Idris, Director General of the center, regarding response activities.

Concerning the action plan, he continued, “there has been high-level advocacy to the Governors’ and Commissioners’ Forum to ensure commitment and resources for outbreak response, as well as to secure necessary political and financial support.”

He lists the following other action plans: “Stepping up Risk Communication and Community Engagement interventions, including sustaining the narrative throughout the peak season and broadcasting key prevention messages on radio and TV stations in local languages starting in September.”

In order to get the rodent population down to the bare minimum by October 2024, it is also important to support states in achieving operational preparedness one month ahead of the outbreak season and to carry out environmental cleaning and deratization exercises in five hotspot states.

References and Citation

punchng.com – NCDC confirms 982 Lassa fever cases, 168 death

guardian.ng – NCDC confirms 982 Lassa fever cases, 168 deaths

fij.ng – REPORT: Lassa Fever Kills 168 Nigerians in 8 Months

radionigeria.gov.ng – NCDC issues Lassa fever warning, confirms 983 cases

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