Nigeria lassa fever death rate rises despite fewer cases

Health Update: Lassa Fever Outbreak in Nigeria

As of the last week of February, Nigeria reported a decline in new Lassa fever infections, with the number dropping to 65 from 77 the previous week, according to the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC).

The case fatality rate has increased to over 23 percent, compared to just under 19 percent during the same period last year. The NCDC attributes this rise to delays in seeking treatment, poor sanitation, and low information awareness in heavily affected communities.

The NCDC is enhancing support for local authorities by increasing surveillance and contact tracing efforts. Rapid response teams are being deployed to infection hotspots, and personal protective equipment is being distributed to health facilities.

The outbreak predominantly affects individuals aged 21 to 30, with an increase in infections among healthcare workers also noted.

Lassa fever is part of the same virus family as Marburg and Ebola, known for causing infections that may include fever, vomiting, and in severe cases, hemorrhagic bleeding. The virus was first identified in the town of Lassa in northern Nigeria in 1969.

While Lassa fever is endemic to the region and remains asymptomatic in 80 percent of cases, it can lead to internal bleeding if diagnosed late. Currently, there are no licensed vaccines available for Lassa fever.

Based on reporting by Africanews.