A 31-year-old doctor who recently returned from the United Kingdom (UK) tragically succumbed to Lassa fever, adding to the toll of this deadly virus in the UK. The news was officially confirmed by the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) on Sunday, March 9.
As of Sunday, March 2, a total of 535 confirmed cases of Lassa fever have been reported out of 2,728 suspected cases, resulting in 98 fatalities across 14 states in Nigeria. The concerning spike in cases has raised alarms among health officials and the public alike.
The NCDC disclosed in a statement that on March 5, 2025, a case of Lassa fever was identified by the Ondo State Ministry of Health. The patient, a 31-year-old physician, sought treatment at a private health facility in Ondo State upon returning from the UK. Tragically, despite efforts to diagnose and treat the illness, the patient passed away in the early hours of Saturday, March 1, 2025.
The laboratory results confirmed the presence of Lassa fever through PCR testing on Tuesday, March 4, 2025. It was discovered that the patient had visited his fiancée in Edo State and spent time with family and friends before seeking medical attention.
Lassa fever, a severe viral hemorrhagic fever caused by the Lassa virus, poses a significant public health threat. The primary carrier of this virus is the multimammate rat, also known as the ‘African rat,’ though other rodents can also harbor the virus. The NCDC highlighted that Lassa fever cases are reported year-round, with transmission peaking between October and May.
Alarming Statistics and High-Risk Areas
The NCDC reported that as of Epi-week 9, from February 24 to March 2, 2025, 2,728 suspected cases, 535 confirmed cases, and 98 deaths have been recorded across 14 states in Nigeria. The case fatality rate stands at 18.3 percent, underscoring the severity of the outbreak.
Five states, namely Ondo (31 percent), Bauchi (24 percent), Edo (17 percent), Taraba (16 percent), and Ebonyi (3 percent), account for 91 percent of the confirmed cases. Additionally, ten local government areas, including Owo, Akure South, Etsako West, and others, make up 68 percent of the confirmed cases.
Preventive Measures and International Collaboration
To curb the spread of the virus, the Ondo State Ministry of Health has intensified control measures, such as contact tracing and monitoring individuals who had contact with the confirmed case. The NCDC has mobilized all necessary resources to ensure effective surveillance and monitoring of contacts.
Port Health Services are actively tracing in-flight contacts to bolster surveillance at entry points, while relevant authorities have been informed in line with the International Health Regulations 2005. Efforts are also underway in the UK to trace contacts and prevent further transmission of the disease.
Lassa fever is transmitted through direct contact with infected rodents, their bodily fluids, or contaminated objects. Person-to-person spread can occur through contact with infected bodily fluids, particularly in healthcare settings. Early detection and treatment are crucial in improving patient outcomes and preventing further transmission.
The symptoms of Lassa fever, which can mimic those of other febrile illnesses like malaria, include headache, weakness, cough, nausea, vomiting, muscle aches, and in severe cases, bleeding from various body openings. Timely reporting of symptoms is essential for prompt intervention and a higher chance of recovery.
In conclusion, the recent death of the UK returnee due to Lassa fever serves as a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance and swift action in combating infectious diseases. Heightened awareness, preventive measures, and international collaboration are crucial in containing outbreaks and protecting public health.
