Nigeria is facing renewed pressure on its already fragile healthcare system as a surge in Lassa fever cases has claimed at least 146 lives within three months, while infecting dozens of frontline medical workers.
Health professionals have expressed growing concern over inadequate protective measures and systemic weaknesses, warning that those battling the disease are increasingly at risk themselves.
Figures released by the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention show that in just 11 weeks, 582 cases have been confirmed from 3,222 suspected infections nationwide.
A breakdown of fatalities highlights the severity of the outbreak: Taraba State recorded the highest number of deaths at 40, followed by Ondo State with 31. Bauchi reported 25 deaths, while Plateau and Benue states each recorded 11. Edo State logged nine fatalities, and Nasarawa reported three.
The situation is particularly alarming among healthcare workers. The National Association of Resident Doctors confirmed that at least 25 of its members have been infected, with one death recorded. Similarly, the Nigerian Medical Association disclosed that no fewer than 37 health workers, including doctors and nurses, have been affected, with three fatalities among doctors.
Lassa fever, a viral haemorrhagic illness endemic to West Africa, is primarily transmitted through contact with food or surfaces contaminated by infected rodents. It can also spread between humans, particularly in healthcare environments where infection control measures are insufficient.
Symptoms range from mild fever and weakness to severe complications such as bleeding, respiratory distress, and, in critical cases, death.
Medical experts say the rising number of infections among health workers underscores serious gaps in infection prevention, especially shortages and inconsistent use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
President of the Nigerian Medical Association, Bala Audu, described the outbreak as part of a seasonal pattern but noted that this year’s impact has been unusually severe.
He explained that although Lassa fever typically peaks between October and early months of the year, the current spike in infections—particularly among healthcare workers—raises concern about both preparedness and response.
Audu stressed that the disease is largely preventable if proper safety measures are followed, urging health facilities to ensure the availability and strict use of protective gear.
Also speaking, the National Secretary of NARD, Shuaibu Ibrahim, criticised authorities for failing to apply lessons from previous outbreaks. He revealed that at least 25 doctors have been infected in the current cycle, describing the government’s response as inadequate.
According to him, the outbreak began about four months ago with the death of a doctor, yet infections have continued to rise, suggesting gaps in early containment efforts.
Across affected states, hospitals are struggling to cope with the surge in cases. In Ondo State—one of the hardest-hit areas—over 20 deaths have been recorded, with many patients receiving treatment at the Federal Medical Centre in Owo and other facilities.
In Benue State, officials reported 400 suspected cases, 55 confirmed infections, and 14 deaths. The outbreak has also affected 11 health workers in the state, including fatalities among doctors and nurses.
Authorities in Bauchi State say they have activated emergency response measures, including intensified surveillance, contact tracing, and the implementation of an incident action plan in high-risk areas.
Despite these efforts, health experts warn that without improved protective measures, better funding, and stricter adherence to safety protocols, the outbreak could continue to escalate—placing both patients and healthcare workers at greater risk.
