THE Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has reported an increase in Lassa fever cases during week 39 of 2024, with Ondo and Edo states each confirming nine new cases.

Referencing the most recent Lassa Fever Situation report, the agency said the discoveries represent a rise from the four cases documented in the previous week, contributing to a concerning total of infections and fatalities for the year.

The NCDC indicated that the nation is experiencing a notable escalation in Lassa fever cases, with the cumulative number of infections in 2024 reaching 1,018 across 28 states.

“As of week 39 (September 23-29), 172 deaths have been reported, reflecting a slight increase in the Case Fatality Rate (CFR) to 16.9 percent, compared to 16.8 percent in the same period in 2023,” the NCDC reports.

The report highlighted that the latest tally of confirmed cases was concentrated in Ondo and Edo states, making up 68 percent of the total confirmed cases for 2024.

It mentioned that “Ondo reported 28 percent of the cases, followed by Edo with 23 percent, and Bauchi with 17 percent.”

The NCDC indicated that the most common age group affected by the illness was between 31 and 40 years old, with an equal gender distribution among the patients.

It reported no cases among healthcare workers during the week of reporting, which is seen as a positive development amidst a surge in cases.

The Nigerian public health agency stated that despite efforts across the country to contain the spread of the illness, the rising death toll is a cause for concern.

It pointed to the high case fatality rate as a result of delayed diagnosis, insufficient health-seeking behaviour, and poor sanitation conditions in areas heavily affected by the disease.

It highlighted that these challenges and the limited availability of treatment are significant obstacles to the nation’s goal of reducing mortality rates.

The agency also mentioned that the National Lassa Fever Technical Working Group (TWG) has been actively coordinating response efforts, and updates are being shared through the Nigeria Preparedness and Readiness Alert System (NPRAS) to keep the public informed about the situation.

The NCDC reported that its collaborators have implemented various measures to strengthen their fight against the problem.

Lassa fever, recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO) as a virus with a high risk of causing serious epidemics, is becoming an increasing danger as global warming potentially exposes about 700 million individuals to risk.

Signs of the illness include high fever, severe headache, muscle aches, and in extreme situations, swelling of the face and bleeding, with many patients experiencing long-lasting issues like hearing loss.

At the same time, as Nigeria deals with the current Lassa fever epidemic, health officials emphasize the need for unified action from both the government and the public to prevent more deaths.