NCDC confirms 318 Lassa fever cases, 70 deaths nationwide

Nigeria's NCDC has confirmed 318 Lassa fever cases and 70 deaths since January 2026, with a 22% case fatality rate. Five states - Edo, Ondo, Taraba, Bauchi, and Ebonyi - account for 91% of infections. The agency deployed rapid response teams to eight states and warned healthcare workers face 15 infections this year due to poor infection control. Challenges include inadequate contact tracing and delayed care-seeking. NCDC urges Nigerians to practice hygiene, store food safely, and seek prompt medical attention to reduce spread.

SOURCE: https://www.channelstv.com/2026/02/20/ncdc-reports-318-lassa-fever-cases-with-70-deaths/