The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has revealed that 214 people have died from Lassa fever across the country between January and early June 2026, raising fresh concerns about the spread of the deadly disease.
According to the agency’s latest report, the outbreak has continued to affect multiple states, with health authorities intensifying efforts to contain infections and reduce fatalities.
NCDC disclosed that the disease has now spread across 23 states and 109 local government areas, highlighting the scale of the public health challenge.
The agency also reported a worrying increase in the disease’s fatality rate, which has risen to 25 percent, compared to 18.9 percent recorded during the same period in 2025.
Health officials noted that new infections were recently confirmed in states including Edo, Ondo, Bauchi, and Ebonyi, while surveillance and response activities remain ongoing nationwide.
According to the report, five states account for the majority of confirmed cases, with Ondo, Bauchi, Taraba, Edo, and Benue recording the highest numbers.
The NCDC further stated that young adults remain the most affected age group, particularly people between 21 and 30 years old.
Despite the rising death toll, the agency said its national incident management system remains active and is coordinating response efforts across federal, state and local government levels.
Health authorities are also continuing case management, surveillance and public awareness campaigns aimed at reducing the spread of the disease.
The latest figures underline the ongoing threat posed by Lassa fever and the need for increased vigilance, early detection and prompt treatment.
Source: Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC)
