Lassa fever: Medical academy demands action as deaths hit 204

The Academy of Medical Sciences Nigeria has called for urgent, coordinated national action following a surge in Lassa fever cases and deaths across the country. In a statement on Monday, signed by its President, Prof. Obinna Onwujekwe, and Chairman of its Rapid Response Committee, Emeritus Prof. Osato Giwa-Osagie, the Academy warned that the rising mortality and sustained transmission of the disease require immediate intervention. Citing data from the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention, the Academy said, “Nigeria has recorded 5,034 suspected cases, 793 laboratory-confirmed infections, and 204 deaths as of Epidemiological Week 19 (May 4–10, 2026).” It added, “The case fatality rate has risen to 25.7 per cent, significantly higher than the 19.4 per cent recorded during the same period in 2025. This troubling trend underscores the urgent need for strengthened prevention and control measures.” The Academy described Lassa fever as “one of Nigeria’s most significant viral haemorrhagic diseases,” noting that it “continues to impose a considerable burden through illness, deaths, economic losses, and pressure on already strained health systems.” According to the statement, confirmed cases have been reported in 23 states and 108 Local Government Areas, with Bauchi, Ondo, Taraba, Edo and Benue accounting for over 80 per cent of infections. “The persistence of transmission across multiple states despite ongoing control efforts is deeply concerning. “The current epidemiological situation demands renewed commitment and coordinated action from all stakeholders,” the Academy said. Highlighting key drivers of the outbreak, the Academy stated, “Late presentation of patients, poor awareness and health-seeking behaviour, and inadequate infection prevention practices in healthcare settings are contributing significantly to the rising fatalities.” It further noted, “Environmental conditions that facilitate rodent infestation, alongside increased transmission risks during the dry season, are sustaining the spread of the disease.” The Academy also raised concerns over infections among healthcare workers. “Continued infections among frontline health personnel point to gaps in infection prevention and control measures, which must be urgently addressed,” it said. Related News Punch Health Xplainer: Ebola cases are rising again: should Nigerians be worried? Rivers toughens tobacco control over rising youth vaping concerns Nigeria ‘not 100% ready’ for possible Ebola emergency, says NCDC Calling on the Federal Ministry of Health and state governments to act swiftly, th