Nigeria Establishes Emergency Response Center in Response to Rising Lassa Fever Cases

Lassa fever has claimed the lives of 190 individuals in Nigeria this year, with over 1,100 people across six states affected by the disease. In response to the escalating situation, Nigeria has established an emergency response center following a high-risk assessment by the Nigerian Center for Disease Control (NCDC). This center will coordinate efforts to control and manage the outbreak.

The head of the NCDC emphasized that peak transmission typically occurs from October to May, with a notable increase in both cases and fatalities over the past four weeks.

Lassa fever is a viral hemorrhagic illness primarily transmitted to humans through contact with food or household items contaminated by rodent urine or feces. Its symptoms include fever, headaches, and, in severe cases, death.

Due to its epidemic potential and the absence of certified vaccines, Lassa fever is classified as a priority disease by the World Health Organization.