Nigeria has reported 1,035 confirmed cases of Lassa fever from 8,569 suspected cases across 28 states and 129 local government areas, resulting in 174 deaths.
Nigeria has reported 1,035 confirmed cases of Lassa fever from 8,569 suspected cases across 28 states and 129 local government areas, resulting in 174 deaths. Additionally, for the 2023/2024 season, 380 confirmed cases of Cerebrospinal Meningitis (CSM) have been reported from 4,915 suspected cases, with 361 deaths in 24 states and the Federal Capital Territory.
Dr. Jide Idris, Director-General of the Nigerian Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC), shared these figures during a press briefing in Abuja, highlighting the ongoing efforts of the federal government to address these public health threats.
Lassa fever, an acute viral hemorrhagic disease transmitted by multimammate rats, continues to spread, exacerbated by environmental factors and climate change. Dr. Idris emphasized that the disease significantly impacts affected communities, driving families into poverty due to medical expenses and loss of income when household members fall ill.
In 2024, the Lassa fever outbreak affected 28 states and 129 local government areas, with 1,035 confirmed cases and 174 deaths. In comparison, in 2023, the ongoing health issue reflected 1,270 confirmed cases and 227 deaths.
Cerebrospinal Meningitis remains an endemic disease in Nigeria, especially during the dry season in the “Meningitis Belt,” which includes the northern states and some southern regions. This season, 380 confirmed cases and 361 deaths have been reported, with vaccination campaigns targeting individuals aged 1 to 29 years in high-prevalence areas, administering over 1.2 million doses.
Despite progress in surveillance, diagnosis, and vaccination, meningitis continues to pose a significant public health threat, particularly in overcrowded settings like schools, camps, and prisons.
Dr. Idris urged Nigerians to get vaccinated, avoid overcrowding, and maintain hygiene practices. He also called on healthcare workers to adhere to infection prevention protocols and promptly report suspected cases for effective intervention.
Both Lassa fever and meningitis remain priority diseases in Nigeria, requiring robust public health responses to reduce their impact on lives and communities.
