The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) is calling for strengthened state-level response measures as Lassa fever cases continue to rise during the peak transmission period of the dry season (November–April).
During the first two months of 2026, Nigeria has recorded a concerning number of Lassa fever cases and deaths involving 18 states and 67 LGAs. Five states — Bauchi, Ondo, Taraba, Edo, and Benue —account for 84% of confirmed cases.
Of the 84% confirmed cases, Bauchi reported 30%, Ondo 21%, Taraba 19%, Edo 8% and Benue 6%.
Cumulatively as of week 8, 2026, 99 deaths have been reported with a Case Fatality Rate (CFR) of 24.5% which is higher than the CFR for the same period in 2025 (18.8%).
Of particular concern is the increase in infections among healthcare workers, with 28 confirmed infections and 3 deaths recorded this season.
Lassa fever follows a predictable seasonal and geographic pattern in Nigeria. High-burden states are known, peak months are well documented.