The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has issued a public advisory on Lassa fever after the death of a 31-year-old physician in Ondo State. The doctor, who had recently returned from the United Kingdom, succumbed to the disease a few days after his return
Lassa Fever Outbreak: Current Situation
In an advisory signed on 9 March by NCDC Director General, Jide Idris, the agency reported that as of 2 March 2025, Nigeria had recorded 535 confirmed cases and 98 deaths across 14 states.
The NCDC highlighted that Ondo, Bauchi, Edo, Taraba, and Ebonyi accounted for 91% of infections. Additionally, at least 16 healthcare workers had been infected as of 23 February.
Physician’s Case and Travel History
According to the NCDC, the deceased doctor traveled to the UK on 19 February and returned to Nigeria on 27 February. He later developed symptoms and was admitted to a private hospital in Ondo State, where samples were taken on 28 February. Unfortunately, he passed away before his test result confirmed Lassa fever.
“Samples were taken late on Friday, 28 February, on suspicion of Lassa fever, but the patient unfortunately passed away in the early hours of Saturday, 1 March,” the NCDC stated. “Laboratory investigation confirmed Lassa fever positive on PCR on Tuesday, 4 March.”
The agency also revealed that before returning to Ondo, the physician visited Edo State to see his fiancée, family, and friends.
In line with International Health Regulations (IHR 2005), the NCDC has informed UK health authorities. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has since placed some individuals under monitoring due to the physician’s recent travel history.
However, UKHSA reassured the public that Lassa fever does not spread easily between people, and the overall risk remains low.
NCDC’s Response and International Coordination
The NCDC outlined ongoing response efforts to contain the spread of Lassa fever at both state and international levels.
Ondo State Ministry of Health has intensified contact tracing and line listing of individuals exposed to the deceased physician.
Port Health Services is monitoring individuals who were on the same flight as the doctor.
Understanding Lassa Fever and Prevention Measures
Lassa fever is a viral hemorrhagic disease primarily transmitted through contact with infected rodents or contaminated food and household items. It can also spread from person to person, especially in healthcare settings with poor infection control.
The multimammate rat (African rat) is the primary carrier of the virus, but other rodents can also be reservoirs.
Symptoms of Lassa Fever:
Fever, headache, muscle pain, general body weakness, cough, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, chest pain, sore throat, severe cases may involve bleeding from the eyes, nose, mouth, and other body openings
The NCDC urged Nigerians to take preventive measures to protect themselves and their communities:
Keep homes clean and rodent-free, store food properly in sealed containers, maintain good personal hygiene, including regular handwashing.
Healthcare workers should adhere to infection prevention protocols, use personal protective equipment (PPE), and isolate confirmed cases.
“Preventing Lassa fever is a shared responsibility. Together, we can reduce the spread of this disease and save lives,” the NCDC stated.
The public is advised to report suspected cases promptly to local Disease Surveillance and Notification Officers for immediate action.
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