Nigerian Academy of Medical Sciences Urges Immediate Action on Rising Lassa Fever Cases
The Nigerian Academy of Medical Sciences has issued a call for urgent national action in response to the alarming increase in Lassa fever cases and fatalities across the nation. This plea comes as data shows a significant rise in both the incidence and mortality rates associated with this viral disease.
In a statement released on Monday, President Professor Obinna Onwugekwe and Chair of the Rapid Response Committee Emeritus Professor Osato Giwa-Osagie highlighted the importance of immediate intervention. According to information from the Nigeria Center for Disease Control and Prevention, as of the 19th Epidemiology Week (May 4-10, 2026), Nigeria has recorded 5,034 suspected cases, 793 confirmed cases, and 204 deaths, representing a concerning trend.
The report further noted an alarming increase in the case fatality rate, which has surged to 25.7%, compared to 19.4% during the corresponding period in 2025. This trend underscores the urgent necessity for enhanced preventive and control measures to mitigate the disease’s impact.
Lassa fever is identified as one of Nigeria’s most significant viral hemorrhagic diseases, contributing to high morbidity and mortality rates, economic losses, and increasing strain on an already burdened healthcare system. Confirmed cases have been reported in 23 states and over 108 local government areas, with Bauchi, Ondo, Taraba, Edo, and Benue accounting for more than 80% of infections. Despite ongoing control efforts, sustained transmission remains a serious concern.
The Academy pointed out several key factors driving the outbreak, including delayed patient presentation, low public awareness and health-seeking behavior, as well as inadequate infection control practices in healthcare facilities. Additionally, environmental conditions that favor rodent activity exacerbate the spread of the disease, particularly during the dry season.
Concerns are also growing about the prevalence of infections among healthcare workers, indicating substantial gaps in current infection prevention and control measures. The Academy emphasized the need for governments to bolster disease surveillance systems, ensure early detection, and deploy rapid response teams to potentially affected populations.
The statement also called for urgent expansion of access to designated Lassa fever treatment centers and an increase in national clinical testing capacity. To improve healthcare safety, the Academy stressed the necessity of adhering strictly to infection prevention protocols in both public and private healthcare settings, alongside ensuring adequate supplies of personal protective equipment for all healthcare workers.
Moreover, the Academy recommended that each high-risk state establish at least one referral treatment center equipped with specialized nursing and testing capabilities. Public advisories included precautions for food storage, maintaining environmental hygiene, and avoiding contact with rodents, recognized as primary vectors of the virus. Prompt medical attention is crucial for individuals presenting persistent fever or symptoms related to Lassa fever, and self-medication should be avoided.
The Academy also emphasized the importance of enhancing public awareness through risk communication efforts to address misinformation and poor health practices that hinder effective disease management. It urged increased investment in research, advocating for strengthened local capacity for infectious disease research, as well as the development of diagnostics, treatments, and vaccines.
Reaffirming its commitment to collaboration, the Academy expressed readiness to work with governments, health institutions, and development partners through scientific guidance, advocacy, and public education. The statement concluded by highlighting that early detection, prompt treatment, effective infection control, environmental hygiene, and sustained government efforts are essential to reducing the burden of Lassa fever in Nigeria.
