By Christiana Akinola (SIWES student, Polytechnic Iresi)
In 2023, the NCDC reported 9,155 suspected Lassa fever cases, with 1,270 confirmed cases and 227 fatalities (CFR 17.9%).
The cases were distributed across 28 states and 124 LGAs, prompting the activation of the Lassa Fever Emergency Operations Centre to address the rising threat. NCDC’s director-general, Ifedayo Adetifa, highlighted the widespread occurrence of cases and the potential international health risk.
The multisectoral Emergency Operations Centre was established in collaboration with the National Lassa Fever Technical Working Group, following a risk assessment indicating a high likelihood of increased transmission.
The assessment cited factors such as a high case fatality rate, lack of suspicion among healthcare workers, and ongoing loss of essential healthcare personnel.
