Nigeria has recorded 1,115 confirmed cases of Lassa fever and 263 deaths across 24 states, with the case fatality rate rising to 23.6 per cent, according to the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC).
The figures were disclosed in the agency’s situation report for epidemiological week 38, covering September 14 to 20, 2026.
According to the report, the fatality rate increased from 18.5 per cent recorded during the corresponding period in 2025, despite a decline in newly confirmed infections.
The NCDC reported 11 new cases during the week under review, down from 17 cases recorded in the preceding week. The latest infections were identified in Ondo, Edo and Taraba states.
The disease has been reported in 119 local government areas across the 24 affected states, with five states accounting for the majority of confirmed cases.
“87 per cent of all confirmed cases were reported from five states: Bauchi, Ondo, Taraba, Benue and Edo,” the report stated.
The agency also identified people aged between 21 and 30 as the most affected age group. It added that no new infections among healthcare workers were recorded during the reporting period.
By the end of epidemiological week 37, Nigeria had recorded 1,104 confirmed cases and 259 deaths, with a case fatality rate of 23.5 per cent. The latest figures indicate an increase of 11 confirmed cases and four deaths.
Lassa fever is an acute viral disease primarily transmitted to humans through contact with food or household items contaminated by infected rodents. Transmission can also occur between people, particularly in healthcare settings where appropriate infection prevention and control measures are not observed.
The NCDC urged healthcare workers and members of the public to maintain preventive practices and promptly report suspected infections to health authorities.
The rising fatality rate highlights the importance of early detection, timely medical treatment and stronger preventive measures to reduce deaths and limit the spread of the disease.
