Lassa Outbreak: Bauchi State takes center stage as NCDC deploys resources

The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has reported a significant rise in Lassa fever cases, with 80 deaths and 413 confirmed cases across 11 states during Epidemiological Week 6 (February 3–9, 2025). Bauchi State has emerged as a focal point in the ongoing outbreak, with a large number of cases reported, leading to heightened concerns about the virus’s spread.

According to the NCDC, the case fatality rate (CFR) has increased to 19.4%, compared to 17.5% during the same period last year. Bauchi, along with Ondo and Edo states, accounts for the majority of confirmed cases, contributing to 73% of the total reported infections. This surge in cases has raised alarms as the state grapples with the challenges of containing the virus and preventing further fatalities.

While the number of new cases has decreased from 68 in Week 5 to 54 in Week 6, the high fatality rate remains a significant concern. The NCDC reports that the majority of affected individuals are between the ages of 21 and 30, with a male-to-female ratio of 1:0.8. Bauchi has been identified as one of the high-risk areas, with increased efforts being made to improve surveillance, contact tracing, and healthcare worker training in the region.

The NCDC has deployed National Rapid Response Teams (NRRT) to Bauchi and neighboring states to enhance Lassa fever case management. These teams are working to provide essential medical supplies such as personal protective equipment (PPEs), Ribavirin, and thermometers, along with strengthening the response capabilities of local healthcare facilities.

Bauchi’s experience highlights some of the ongoing challenges in managing Lassa fever outbreaks, including delayed case presentations and poor health-seeking behavior in rural communities. Limited awareness and high treatment costs have also been identified as major barriers to effective control. As a result, the NCDC is focusing on community sensitization and raising awareness about early symptoms and the importance of seeking prompt medical care.

The NCDC has partnered with the World Health Organisation (WHO), Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF), and the International Research Centre of Excellence (IRCE) to improve diagnosis, treatment, and overall outbreak response in Bauchi and other affected states.

To further curb the spread of the virus, the NCDC has announced a nationwide rodent control and awareness campaign, in collaboration with Breakthrough Action Nigeria (BA-N). The campaign aims to educate communities on the risks of rodent exposure and the importance of proper food storage and hygiene practices.

The NCDC urges residents of Bauchi and other affected states to take preventive measures, including maintaining proper hygiene, avoiding contact with rodents, and seeking medical attention early if symptoms such as fever, sore throat, or unexplained bleeding occur. The public is also advised to stay informed by visiting the NCDC website or calling the toll-free line: 6232.