Ondo, Edo lead as NCDC reports 1,068 Lassa fever cases

The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) says 1,068 Lassa fever infections have been recorded in 28 states from January to September 17.

The NCDC, in its latest Lassa fever situation report, said 75 percent of the cases were detected in Ondo, Edo, and Bauchi states.

The agency said the infection has resulted in the deaths of 181 people, adding that the case-fatality ratio of the infection stood at 16.9 percent.

“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),” the report reads.

“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.”

The agency added that in 2023, Lassa fever infected 49 healthcare workers across the country.