By Blessing Otobong-Gabriel
Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention, NCDC, has expressed concerns over the worsening Lassa fever cases in Nigeria, particularly during the yuletide season.
The Director General, NCDC, Dr Jide Idris said at a press conference that there has been an increase in suspected Lassa fever cases compared to the same period in 2023, he highlights the need for continued vigilance and enhanced surveillance to detect and monitor cases.
According to him, the recent surge in cases has prompted the NCDC to intensify its efforts in combating the outbreak.
“The NCDC has activated its Emergency Operations Center (EOC) to coordinate the response to the outbreak and is working closely with state governments, healthcare workers, and other stakeholders to contain the spread of the disease”.
NCDC Boss noted that it’s agency continues to address the current Lassa Fever outbreak during this peak season. Lassa fever remains endemic in Nigeria, posing a significant public health risk across all states.
He said, the disease occurs throughout the year, with peak transmission typically recorded between October and May. Outbreaks typically occur during the dry season, when human exposure to rodents is highest.
“Cumulatively this year, we have recorded 9,492 suspected cases, 1,154 confirmed with 190 deaths. Six states make up 89% of the confirmed cases, namely: Ondo 29.7%, Edo 22.7%, Bauchi 17.9%, Taraba 8.8%, Benue 5.6%, and Ebonyi 4%. 10 LGAs Owo, Etsako West, Esan West, Kirfi, Ardo-Kola, Toro, Ose, Akure South, Jalingo and Idah) accounted for almost 59% of the confirmed cases”.
Dr Idris informed that there has been an alarming increase in Lassa fever cases and deaths in the last 4 weeks, signaling the outbreak’s severity, saying the first, the case fatality rate has consistently remained high, over 13%.
“We have noted a rise in the number of suspected cases compared to a similar timeline in 2023. This, however, could be attributed to the increased / enhanced surveillance, Most cases continue to emerge from endemic areas, like Bauchi, Ondo, Edo, Taraba Ebonyi and Enugu, underscoring the need for targeted interventions in these states”.
He explained, “These trends therefore demand a coordinated effort to strengthen our response and protect our vulnerable populations. Our goal is to reduce the number of cases and importantly, deaths.
“In addressing this situation, it is important to highlight the proactive measures taken by the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention, NCDC, so far. These efforts demonstrate our commitment to preparedness, coordination, and response at all levels.
He said In preparation for this outbreak season, critical medical supplies, infection prevention and control (IPC) materials, and laboratory diagnostic tools and materials have been distributed to various states, nationwide.
“Lassa Fever testing laboratories have also been expanded from about 9 to 13, and more will still be upgraded”.
He advised public to always keep their environment clean, especially our homes, markets, dump sites to reduce breeding grounds for rats, block all holes in their house to prevent the entry of rats and other rodents, cover dustbins and dispose of refuse or waste properly.
“Communities should set up dump sites far from their homes to reduce the chances of the entry of rodents into their homes, safely store food items such as rice, garri, beans, corn/maize, etc., in tightly sealed or well-covered containers. And avoid open drying of food stuff among others.
