The NCDC reported 118 deaths from Lassa fever in Nigeria this year, with 3,465 suspected cases across 33 states. Despite efforts, the disease remains a challenge. Early care improves survival, but severe cases can be fatal.

Nigeria’s Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) reported on Sunday that at least 118 people have died from Lassa fever since the beginning of the year.

In an official statement, the agency disclosed that a total of 3,465 suspected cases have been recorded across 33 states during this period. Out of these, 645 cases have been confirmed through laboratory testing.

Lassa fever is an acute viral illness that is endemic to Nigeria. The primary mode of transmission to humans is through contact with food or household items contaminated with urine or feces from infected rodents.

Despite years of public health campaigns aimed at improving environmental hygiene, there has been little progress in controlling the conditions that enable rodents to access homes, food supplies, and kitchen utensils, particularly in poorer rural areas. These persistent challenges continue to contribute to the spread of the disease.

In response to the outbreak, the NCDC stated that it has deployed Rapid Response Teams to 10 states. However, the agency has urged state governments and the private sector to intensify their efforts to curb the spread of the disease and strengthen containment measures.

Lassa fever initially presents with flu-like symptoms, including a sore throat, muscle pain, cough, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. As the infection worsens in severe cases, it can lead to facial swelling, accumulation of fluid in the lung cavity, and uncontrolled bleeding from the mouth, nose, and other parts of the body.

Early intensive supportive care, including rehydration and symptomatic treatment, significantly improves the chances of survival. While most individuals recover fully, the disease remains potentially fatal in severe cases.