Lassa fever: NCDC reports decline in cases

Nigeria has recorded a decline in confirmed cases of Lassa fever, according to the latest update from the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC). The development is being viewed as a positive sign in the country's ongoing efforts to control the viral disease, although health officials continue to urge Nigerians to remain vigilant.

The NCDC noted that while the number of new infections has reduced in recent weeks compared to earlier periods, Lassa fever remains a public health concern in several states. Authorities have emphasized that the disease has not been eliminated and that preventive measures must continue to be observed by individuals and communities.

Progress in Disease Control

Public health experts attribute the decline in reported cases to improved disease surveillance, increased public awareness, early diagnosis, and better case management across affected areas. Health workers have also intensified community sensitization campaigns, encouraging residents to report symptoms early and seek medical attention promptly.

According to the NCDC, collaboration between federal and state health authorities has strengthened response efforts, particularly in states that experience recurring outbreaks.

Understanding Lassa Fever

Lassa fever is an acute viral illness caused by the Lassa virus. It is primarily spread through contact with food or household items contaminated by the urine or droppings of infected multimammate rats. The disease can also spread from person to person through direct contact with the blood, urine, saliva, or other bodily fluids of an infected individual, especially in healthcare settings where infection prevention measures are inadequate.

The illness is endemic in parts of West Africa, including Nigeria, where cases are reported throughout the year, with higher transmission often occurring during the dry season.

Common Symptoms

Health experts advise the public to seek immediate medical attention if they experience symptoms such as:

Persistent fever
General weakness
Headache
Sore throat
Muscle pain
Chest pain
Vomiting
Diarrhoea
Abdominal pain
Bleeding from the nose, mouth, or other body openings in severe cases

Early diagnosis and treatment significantly improve recovery outcomes.

Preventive Measures

The NCDC continues to encourage Nigerians to adopt simple hygiene practices that can reduce the risk of infection. These include:

Keeping homes and surroundings clean.
Storing food in tightly sealed containers.
Properly disposing of household waste.
Preventing rodents from entering homes.
Washing hands regularly with soap and clean water.
Avoiding contact with rodents and their droppings.
Seeking medical care immediately when symptoms appear.

Healthcare facilities are also encouraged to maintain strict infection prevention and control measures to reduce the risk of transmission among patients and healthcare workers.

Public Cooperation Remains Essential

Medical professionals say that public awareness has played an important role in reducing infections. They encourage communities to continue reporting suspected cases promptly and to avoid self-medication when symptoms develop.

Community leaders, schools, religious organisations, and local health authorities are also being encouraged to sustain awareness campaigns, particularly in rural communities where the disease has historically been more prevalent.

Outlook

The reported decline in Lassa fever cases represents encouraging progress for Nigeria's public health system. However, experts caution that continued vigilance is necessary to prevent future outbreaks. Sustained surveillance, improved sanitation, and early medical intervention remain critical components of the country's strategy to reduce the burden of the disease.

As health authorities continue to monitor the situation, Nigerians are advised to remain informed, practise good hygiene, and cooperate with public health guidelines to help protect themselves and their communities.