The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has confirmed the tragic death of a 31-year-old physician who succumbed to Lassa fever shortly after returning from the United Kingdom. His passing adds to the growing number of fatalities linked to the viral disease, bringing Nigeria’s Lassa fever death toll to 98 as of March 2, 2025.
Escalating Lassa Fever Cases Across Nigeria
According to the NCDC’s latest advisory, the number of confirmed Lassa fever cases in Nigeria has surged to 535 out of 2,728 suspected cases. The outbreak, which has affected 14 states, has resulted in a case fatality rate of 18.3 per cent. Five states—Ondo, Bauchi, Edo, Taraba, and Ebonyi—account for a staggering 91 per cent of confirmed cases, with Ondo alone recording 31 per cent.
The UK Returnee’s Case
The NCDC detailed that the deceased physician had travelled abroad on February 19, 2025, and returned to Nigeria on February 27, 2025. Shortly after his arrival, he fell ill and was admitted to a private health facility in Ondo State. On February 28, 2025, samples were collected under suspicion of Lassa fever, but tragically, he passed away in the early hours of March 1, 2025. Laboratory analysis confirmed his Lassa fever diagnosis through PCR testing on March 4, 2025.
Reports indicate that before his illness, the physician had visited his fiancée in Edo State, as well as family and friends, increasing the risk of potential exposure.
Understanding Lassa Fever and Its Spread
Lassa fever is a highly infectious viral haemorrhagic disease caused by the Lassa virus, primarily spread by multimammate rats. The virus is transmitted through direct contact with the bodily fluids of infected rodents, consumption of contaminated food or water, or exposure to contaminated household items. Additionally, person-to-person transmission is possible, especially in healthcare settings where infection control measures are inadequate.
Common symptoms mimic those of other febrile illnesses such as malaria and include fever, headache, weakness, cough, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, and muscle pains. In severe cases, patients may experience bleeding from the mouth, nose, eyes, or other body openings, which can lead to fatal complications.
Response Measures and Contact Tracing
The Ondo State Ministry of Health has ramped up control measures, launching an extensive contact tracing initiative to track and monitor individuals who may have come into contact with the deceased. The NCDC has also mobilized national and international resources, including Port Health Services, to ensure thorough surveillance at Nigeria’s points of entry. Additionally, authorities in the UK have been informed to assist in tracing in-flight contacts.
Peak Transmission Season and Public Health Advisory
Lassa fever cases are reported year-round, with peak transmission periods typically occurring between October and May. The NCDC urges the public to maintain strict hygiene practices, store food properly, and avoid direct contact with rodents. The agency emphasizes that early detection and prompt medical attention significantly increase survival chances.
Given the rapid spread of Lassa fever, authorities continue to strengthen response efforts to curb the outbreak and prevent further fatalities.
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