The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has deployed National Rapid Response Teams to multiple high-burden states as Lassa fever cases rise sharply nationwide, now including infections among healthcare workers.
Dr. Jide Idris, NCDC Director-General, announced the deployment during a recent press briefing in Abuja, where he updated on the national response to the viral haemorrhagic disease.
He stressed the urgency for state governments to invest more consistently in surveillance, prevention, and control measures at the sub-national level.
Recent reports indicate 318 confirmed cases and 70 deaths so far in 2026 (as of mid-February), with a case fatality rate around 22%.
The outbreak is concentrated in states like Bauchi, Ondo, Taraba, Edo, Plateau, Benue, and Jigawa (with teams sent to up to eight states). Factors driving spread include weak infection prevention in facilities, late patient presentations, and stigma delaying care among exposed health workers 15 of whom have been infected, with two fatalities noted in advisories.
The NCDC has activated its Incident Management System and is supporting enhanced case management, community engagement, PPE distribution, and coordination.
Dr. Idris reiterated that safeguarding healthcare workers is critical and urged stronger local action to halt transmission and limit the outbreak's toll.
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