NCDC Records 1,154 Confirmed Lassa Fever Cases And 190 Deaths In 2024
The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has reported 1,154 confirmed cases of Lassa fever out of 9,492 suspected cases, resulting in 190 deaths so far in 2024. This was disclosed by the Director General of the NCDC, Dr. Jide Idris, during a press briefing in Abuja on Monday. He noted that the Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) has been activated to address the outbreak, with the risk assessment categorizing it as high.
Overview of Lassa Fever and Spread
Lassa fever, an acute viral haemorrhagic disease caused by the Lassa virus, remains endemic in Nigeria, with transmission peaking between October and May. The primary reservoir for the virus is the multimammate rat, though other rodents can act as carriers. The virus spreads through:
•Contact with droppings (urine, faeces, saliva, or blood) of infected rats.
•Contaminated objects, household items, or food.
•Person-to-person transmission via body fluids such as blood, urine, and vomit.
Dr. Idris explained, “The disease poses a significant public health risk across all states, with outbreaks typically occurring during the dry season when human exposure to rodents is highest.”
Epidemiological Trends
Six states account for 89% of confirmed cases:
•Ondo (29.7%)
•Edo (22.7%)
•Bauchi (17.9%)
•Taraba (8.8%)
•Benue (5.6%)
•Ebonyi (4.0%)
Ten local government areas, including Owo, Esan West, and Akure South, represent nearly 59% of the confirmed cases. The case fatality rate remains alarmingly high at over 13%, with a noticeable rise in suspected cases compared to 2023. However, this increase may be linked to improved surveillance efforts.
NCDC’s Response
To combat the outbreak, the NCDC has implemented several measures:
1.Emergency Operations Centre Activation: Using a One Health approach, the EOC coordinates the control and management of Lassa fever.
2.Medical Supplies: Distribution of infection prevention materials, diagnostic tools, and laboratory resources to affected states.
3.Expanded Testing Facilities: Testing laboratories have increased from nine to 13, with further upgrades planned.
4.Rodent Control: Targeted interventions in high-burden states like Ondo, Edo, Ebonyi, and Benue.
5.Public Awareness Campaigns: Advising citizens to maintain clean environments, store food safely, avoid bush burning, and practice personal hygiene.
Advisory to the Public and Healthcare Workers
Dr. Idris urged healthcare workers to maintain a high index of suspicion for Lassa fever and promptly report suspected cases for swift public health action. He also encouraged the public to adhere to preventive measures, including:
•Keeping homes rodent-free.
•Avoiding food contamination.
•Practicing good hygiene.
“The NCDC remains committed to protecting public health through proactive measures, coordinated responses, and collaboration with stakeholders. By adhering to these strategies, we can reduce the impact of Lassa fever and safeguard communities nationwide,” he said.
The agency reassured Nigerians of its readiness to tackle the outbreak and urged collective efforts to curb the spread of the disease.
