The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) has raised alarm over a worrying rise in Lassa fever infections, reporting that 15 health care workers have tested positive for the virus and two have died while on duty, according to the agency’s latest advisory. The alert, issued on Monday, emphasised the need for increased vigilance and strict adherence to infection prevention and control measures, especially among medical staff treating suspected cases. Confirmed infections among health workers have been reported across several states including known high-burden areas such as Ondo, Edo, Bauchi, Taraba, Ebonyi, and Benue. 

Lassa fever, a viral haemorrhagic disease endemic to parts of West Africa, has been a persistent public health threat in Nigeria. Although overall case counts and fatalities have fluctuated over the past year, recent national health data show that the virus continues to spread across multiple states, with hundreds of suspected and confirmed cases recorded in 2025 and early 2026.

 The NCDC’s call to action highlights ongoing challenges in containment, particularly the protection of frontline health workers who face elevated risk due to exposure during patient care. Public health officials are urging strengthened surveillance, prompt treatment, and community education to curb further transmission.