The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has issued a public health alert after a concerning rise in Lassa fever infections among healthcare personnel during the 2025/2026 outbreak season.
According to the advisory, 15 health workers have tested positive for the viral hemorrhagic disease, and two have died from it as of epidemiological week 7.
The infections have been reported across multiple states known to carry a high Lassa fever burden, including Ondo, Edo, Bauchi, Taraba, Ebonyi, and Benue.
The NCDC emphasised that gaps in infection prevention and control practices such as inconsistent use of personal protective equipment and low levels of risk awareness likely contributed to the spread among medical staff.
In its advisory, the NCDC urged all health facilities to reinforce strict hygiene and protective measures, prioritise early detection, and train both clinical and non-clinical staff on proper infection control.
Rapid response teams have also been deployed to support outbreak containment efforts in affected regions.
International health authorities recognise Lassa fever as an endemic viral disease in West Africa that presents recurring seasonal risks, particularly to frontline workers.
