Nigeria has recorded 268 deaths from Lassa fever by epidemiological week 40 of 2026, with a case fatality rate (CFR) of 23.6% among 1,138 confirmed cases, according to the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC).
The NCDC’s latest situation report shows a slight increase in deaths since week 38, which reported 263 fatalities and 1,115 confirmed cases over the period from 14 to 20 September 2026. Despite the rise in deaths, the CFR remained stable at 23.6%, higher than the 18.6% reported for the same period in 2025.
New cases in week 40 included three confirmed infections in Bauchi and Benue states, with one recorded death. These figures highlight the ongoing severity of the outbreak across the country.
The virus has affected 24 states and 119 local government areas nationwide. However, the outbreak is concentrated, with five states—Ondo, Bauchi, Taraba, Edo, and Benue—accounting for 88% of all confirmed cases. This regional focus underlines the need for targeted public health interventions.
The NCDC has attributed the elevated fatality rate to several factors, including late presentation of patients to healthcare facilities, high treatment costs, poor sanitation, and low public awareness about the disease. These challenges complicate efforts to control the outbreak and protect vulnerable communities.
“Cumulatively, 268 deaths have been reported with a Case Fatality Rate (CFR) of 23.6%, which is higher than the CFR for the same period in 2025 (18.6%),” the NCDC noted in its situation report.
The outbreak poses a heavy burden on Nigeria’s healthcare system, with concerns about infections among health workers adding urgency to the response. While the NCDC’s week 40 report did not confirm any new healthcare worker infections, previous outbreaks have highlighted this risk.
Lassa fever is a viral haemorrhagic illness endemic in parts of West Africa, transmitted to humans primarily through contact with food or household items contaminated by rodent urine or droppings. It can also spread between humans through bodily fluids.
The rising fatality rate and persistent spread signal a need for early treatment, improved sanitation, and increased community vigilance. With much of the disease burden concentrated in specific states, resources for surveillance, effective diagnosis, and public education must be prioritised there to reduce further casualties.
The NCDC and partners continue to monitor the situation closely. Further updates will follow as more data become available in the coming weeks.