Lassa Fever Outbreak Sweeps Across Nigeria, Claiming Lives

The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention has reported a significant rise in Lassa fever cases across Nigeria, with a total of 2,122 suspected cases, 411 confirmed cases, and 72 fatalities recorded as of February 11, 2024.

The confirmed cases have been documented in 21 states and 78 local government areas throughout the country, indicating the widespread nature of the outbreak.

Lassa fever is a severe viral hemorrhagic fever caused by the Lassa virus, with the Mastomys natalensis rodent, also known as the African rat, serving as its natural reservoir.

Transmission of the virus occurs through direct contact with infected rats’ bodily fluids or consumption of food and water contaminated with these fluids, posing a significant public health threat.

The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention’s latest Lassa fever situation report for Week Six highlights the urgency of addressing this ongoing health crisis and implementing robust control measures to curb further spread.