Nigeria’s Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has issued a public advisory following the death of a 31-year-old doctor in Ondo State from Lassa fever. The physician, who recently traveled to the United Kingdom, died shortly after returning to Nigeria.
In a statement signed by NCDC Director General Jide Idris on March 9, the agency reported that as of March 2, Nigeria had recorded 535 confirmed cases and 98 deaths across 14 states in 2025. Most infections—91/percent—were in Ondo, Bauchi, Edo, Taraba, and Ebonyi states. The latest NCDC report also confirmed that at least 16 healthcare workers had been infected as of February 23.
Physician’s Case and International Response
According to NCDC, the doctor traveled to the UK on February 19 and returned to Nigeria on February 27. He later developed symptoms and was admitted to a private hospital in Ondo State. Samples were taken on February 28, but he died on March 1 before test results confirmed Lassa fever on March 4.
Before his hospitalization, he had visited Edo State to see his fiancée, family, and friends. Following international health regulations, the NCDC informed UK health authorities. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) placed certain individuals under observation due to the doctor’s recent travel. However, UKHSA reassured the public that Lassa fever does not spread easily and the overall risk remains low.
Ongoing Response and Containment Efforts
The NCDC has intensified containment efforts at both national and international levels. The Ondo State Ministry of Health has increased surveillance through contact tracing and monitoring exposed individuals.
Additionally, the NCDC has partnered with Port Health Services to track passengers who traveled on the same flight as the deceased doctor.
Understanding Lassa Fever and Preventive Measures
Lassa fever is a viral disease primarily spread through contact with infected rodents, contaminated food, or household items. It can also spread from person to person in healthcare settings with poor infection control. The multimammate rat, common in West Africa, is the primary carrier.
Symptoms include fever, headache, body weakness, cough, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, chest pain, muscle pain, and sore throat. In severe cases, patients may experience bleeding from the eyes, nose, mouth, and other body openings.
The NCDC urged Nigerians to take precautions, such as keeping homes rodent-free, storing food in sealed containers, and washing hands frequently. Healthcare workers should follow strict infection prevention protocols, including using protective equipment and isolating confirmed cases.
“Preventing Lassa fever is a shared responsibility. By working together, we can reduce the spread of this disease and save lives,” the NCDC stated.
Authorities also encouraged the public to report suspected cases to local Disease Surveillance and Notification Officers for quick response and management.