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Lassa Fever

Health authorities are intensifying surveillance and community preparedness measures across Nigeria’s Lassa fever hotspots as fresh concerns emerge over recurring outbreaks and the risk of wider transmission.

Public health experts say early detection, hygiene practices, and rapid response systems remain critical to containing the viral disease, particularly in high-burden states.

Data from recent outbreaks show that states such as Edo, Ondo, Ebonyi, Bauchi, and Plateau continue to record a higher number of cases, largely due to environmental conditions, rodent exposure, and gaps in community awareness. These areas have been identified as priority zones for intervention by federal and state health agencies.

Lassa fever is an acute viral hemorrhagic illness transmitted primarily through contact with food or household items contaminated by urine or faeces of infected rodents, especially the multimammate rat. Human-to-human transmission can also occur, particularly in healthcare settings without adequate infection prevention measures.

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The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) has repeatedly warned that delayed reporting and poor health-seeking behaviour in affected communities often contribute to higher fatality rates. Symptoms such as fever, weakness, headache, and sore throat are frequently mistaken for malaria or other common illnesses, leading to late diagnosis.

“Community awareness is key. Many people do not recognise the early signs, and by the time they seek care, complications have set in,” a public health official said.

To address this, health authorities have stepped up public sensitisation campaigns, deploying community health workers to educate residents on preventive measures. These include proper food storage, maintaining clean environments, and reducing contact with rodents.

In hotspot areas, local governments are also working with traditional leaders, religious organisations, and civil society groups to improve grassroots engagement. Community influencers are being encouraged to promote early reporting of symptoms and discourage practices that increase exposure to infection.

Healthcare facilities in affected states are undergoing capacity strengthening, with emphasis on infection prevention and control. Isolation centres have been designated, while frontline health workers are being trained on case management protocols.

However, challenges persist. Limited access to healthcare facilities in rural areas, inadequate diagnostic capacity, and cultural beliefs continue to hinder effective response efforts. In some communities, stigma associated with the disease discourages individuals from seeking timely medical attention.

“There is still fear and misinformation. Some people believe it is spiritual or caused by other factors, which delays treatment,” a community health volunteer noted.

Experts say strengthening laboratory networks and ensuring the availability of diagnostic kits are crucial to improving response time. Rapid testing and confirmation of cases enable quicker isolation and treatment, reducing the spread of the virus.

The Federal Government has reiterated its commitment to tackling Lassa fever through coordinated response strategies, including surveillance, case management, risk communication, and research. Partnerships with international health organisations have also supported capacity building and resource mobilisation.

Seasonal patterns of Lassa fever outbreaks, particularly during the dry season, further underscore the need for continuous preparedness rather than reactive measures. Authorities are urging communities to adopt preventive habits year-round, not only during peak periods.

In addition, waste management practices are being highlighted as a critical component of prevention. Poor sanitation and improper disposal of food waste attract rodents, increasing the risk of contamination.

Non-governmental organisations have also joined the effort, supporting awareness campaigns and providing resources such as protective equipment and hygiene materials in vulnerable communities.

Residents in hotspot areas are being encouraged to take ownership of preventive measures. Simple actions, such as covering food, sealing entry points in homes, and avoiding contact with rodents, can significantly reduce the risk of infection.

Health experts stress that community preparedness is not solely the responsibility of government agencies but requires active participation from individuals and households. Building resilience at the grassroots level is seen as essential to breaking the cycle of recurring outbreaks.

As Nigeria continues to battle Lassa fever, authorities warn that complacency could reverse progress made in recent years. Sustained investment in public health infrastructure, education, and community engagement will be key to reducing the burden of the disease.

For communities in hotspot areas, preparedness remains the first line of defence. The ability to recognise symptoms early, seek prompt medical care, and maintain hygienic environments could determine how effectively future outbreaks are contained.

While efforts are ongoing at various levels, experts agree that a coordinated, community-driven approach offers the best chance of reducing infections and saving lives in the long term.

The Traffic NG
Lassa Fever
Animasaun Esther
The Traffic NG

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