The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has confirmed that a 31-year-old physician died from Lassa fever after returning from the United Kingdom.
The physician, who had recently traveled to the UK, was treated at a private health facility in Ondo State. Unfortunately, the patient passed away on March 1, 2025.
According to the NCDC, as of March 2, 2025, Nigeria has recorded 2,728 suspected Lassa fever cases, with 535 confirmed infections and 98 deaths across 14 states.
The majority of confirmed cases, 91%, are concentrated in five states: Ondo, Bauchi, Edo, Taraba, and Ebonyi. Ten local government areas account for 68% of total cases.
The NCDC has activated all necessary national response structures and is collaborating with Port Health Services to enhance surveillance at entry points. Relevant authorities in the UK have also been notified as part of international health regulations.
The agency urges the public to adhere to preventive measures, including good hygiene and early reporting of symptoms. The NCDC also advises healthcare workers to maintain a high index of suspicion for Lassa fever and to adhere to standard infection prevention and control practices.
The Ondo State Ministry of Health has intensified containment efforts, including rigorous contact tracing and monitoring of individuals who had interactions with the deceased physician.
