1,068 Lassa fever infections have been reported by the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) across 112 local government areas and 28 states of the federation.
This was stated by the NCDC on Tuesday in its Lassa Fever Situation Report for Week 37 (Sept. 11–17, 2023) published on its official website.
According to the center, 75% of the cases were found in the states of Ondo, Edo, and Bauchi.
The NCDC reports that there are currently 7,352 people with probable cases, and the sickness has sadly claimed at least 181 lives throughout the nation.
According to the center, the infection’s case-fatality ratio was 16.9%.
“Cumulatively from week 1 to week 37, 2023, 181 deaths have been reported with a case fatality rate of 16.9 percent which is lower than the CFR for the same period in 2022 (19.1 percent).
“In total for 2023, 28 States have recorded at least one confirmed case across 112 local government areas.
“Seventy-five percent of all confirmed Lassa fever cases were reported from these three states (Ondo, Edo, and Bauchi) while 25 percent were reported from 25 states with confirmed Lassa fever cases.
“Of the 75 percent confirmed cases, Ondo reported 35 percent, Edo 29 percent, and Bauchi 11 percent.
“The predominant age group affected is 21-30 years (Range: 1 to 93 years, Median Age: 32 years).
“The male-to-female ratio for confirmed cases is 1:0.9. The number of suspected cases increased compared to that reported for the same period in 2022,” it said.
It is regrettable that 49 healthcare personnel around the nation contracted Lassa fever in 2023.
Lassa fever can be prevented by avoiding contact with rats and their excrement, practicing good personal hygiene, and adopting safety measures when caring for affected people, the article continued.