Nigeria has recorded 1,035 confirmed cases of Lassa fever out of 8,569 suspected cases, resulting in 174 deaths across 28 states and 129 local government areas as of October 13, 2024. Additionally, 380 confirmed cases of Cerebrospinal Meningitis (CSM) have been reported from 4,915 suspected cases, with 361 fatalities in 24 states and the Federal Capital Territory during the 2023/2024 season.
Dr. Jide Idris, Director-General of the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC), shared the figures during a press briefing in Abuja, emphasizing the Federal Government’s ongoing efforts to address these public health threats.
Lassa fever, an acute viral hemorrhagic illness transmitted primarily by the multimammate rat, continues to spread, with the increase attributed to improved surveillance, climate change, and environmental factors. Dr. Idris noted that the disease significantly impacts affected communities, pushing families into poverty due to medical costs and loss of income when household members fall ill.
In 2024, the Lassa fever outbreak has affected 28 states and 129 local government areas, with 1,035 confirmed cases and 174 deaths. Comparatively, 2023 saw 1,270 confirmed cases and 227 deaths, reflecting a persistent public health challenge.
Cerebrospinal Meningitis remains an epidemic-prone disease in Nigeria, particularly prevalent during the dry season in the “Meningitis Belt,” which covers the northern states and some southern regions. The current season has seen 380 confirmed cases, with 361 deaths across 174 local government areas. Vaccination campaigns targeting individuals aged 1 to 29 years have been conducted in high-burden areas, with over 2.2 million doses administered.
Despite advancements in surveillance, diagnostic capacity, and vaccination, meningitis continues to pose a significant threat to public health, particularly in overcrowded settings like schools, camps, and prisons.
Dr. Idris urged Nigerians to get vaccinated, avoid overcrowding, and maintain hygiene practices. He also called on healthcare workers to adhere to infection prevention protocols and report suspected cases promptly for effective intervention.
Both Lassa fever and meningitis remain priority diseases in Nigeria, demanding robust public health responses to mitigate their impact on lives and communities.
