Latest news on lassa fever in nigeria

Here are the latest news and updates on Lassa fever in Nigeria:

Latest Outbreak:

• As of February 2023, Nigeria has reported 1,144 cases of Lassa fever, with 144 deaths, according to the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC).
• The outbreak is ongoing, with cases reported in 25 states across the country.

Recent Developments:

• On February 14, 2023, the NCDC reported a significant increase in Lassa fever cases, with 144 new cases reported in the past week.
• The World Health Organization (WHO) has deployed a team of experts to Nigeria to support the country's response to the outbreak.
• The Nigerian government has launched a nationwide campaign to raise awareness about Lassa fever and its prevention.

Key Statistics:

• Since the start of the year, Lassa fever has been reported in 25 states, with the highest number of cases reported in Edo, Ondo, and Ebonyi states.
• The case fatality rate (CFR) for Lassa fever in Nigeria is currently 12.6%.
• The majority of cases (70%) are reported in the 15-44 age group.

Prevention and Control Measures:

• The NCDC and other health agencies are working to strengthen surveillance and contact tracing to contain the outbreak.
• Health workers are being trained to recognize and manage Lassa fever cases.
• The public is being advised to maintain good hygiene practices, such as washing hands regularly and avoiding contact with rodents and their excreta.

Recent Research:

• A study published in the Journal of Infectious Diseases found that Lassa fever is more common in Nigeria than previously thought, with an estimated 100,000 to 300,000 cases reported annually.
• Researchers at the University of Ibadan have developed a new diagnostic test for Lassa fever that can detect the virus in just 30 minutes.

International Response:

• The WHO has provided technical and financial support to Nigeria to respond to the outbreak.
• The United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has also provided support to Nigeria's response efforts.

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