Abuja, Nigeria – The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has confirmed the death of a 31-year-old doctor from Lassa fever, raising concerns about the continued presence of the disease and its risk of international spread.
NCDC Director-General, Dr. Jide Idris, revealed in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) that the deceased had recently traveled to the United Kingdom before returning to Nigeria, where he later succumbed to the virus.
The case has prompted an increase in surveillance efforts, with authorities urging the public to remain vigilant and adhere to preventive measures.
The physician had traveled to the UK on February 19, 2025, and returned on February 27. Shortly after his return, he developed symptoms consistent with Lassa fever and was admitted to a private hospital in Ondo State.
Despite undergoing testing on February 28, he tragically passed away on March 1, before the results confirming his infection were released on March 4.
Health authorities have since launched an extensive contact-tracing operation in both Nigeria and the UK. The deceased had reportedly visited his fiancée in Edo State before his trip abroad and had also been in contact with several family members and friends.
Dr. Idris stated that the NCDC, in collaboration with the Ondo State Ministry of Health, has intensified efforts to monitor and assess all individuals who may have been exposed, including relatives, healthcare workers, and airline passengers.
Port Health Services have also reinforced screening measures at airports and other entry points, while the agency is coordinating with UK health officials to track any potential cases stemming from the doctor’s international travel.
In response to the case, Dr. Idris underscored the importance of preventive strategies, urging Nigerians to practice proper hygiene, limit rodent exposure, and seek immediate medical attention if symptoms arise.
Lassa fever is primarily transmitted through contact with food or household items contaminated by infected rodent excretions, but human-to-human transmission is also possible, particularly in medical settings with inadequate infection control.
The NCDC continues to deploy response teams, reinforce infection control measures, and collaborate with specialized treatment centers to manage severe cases. Public health campaigns remain ongoing to raise awareness about rodent control, food safety, and the importance of early symptom detection.
Lassa Fever’s Persistent Threat in Nigeria
Recent NCDC epidemiological data indicates that Lassa fever remains a serious public health challenge in Nigeria. In 2025 alone, the country has recorded 2,728 suspected cases, with 535 confirmed infections and 98 fatalities across 14 states.
According to the report, five states—Ondo, Bauchi, Edo, Taraba, and Ebonyi—account for 91% of all confirmed cases, with Ondo State recording the highest percentage (31%). Several local government areas, including Owo, Akure South, Etsako West, and Jalingo, remain the most affected.
With a case fatality rate currently at 18.3%, health experts continue to emphasize the need for increased public awareness, early detection, and strict adherence to infection prevention protocols to curb the spread of the disease.
Dr. Idris reaffirmed the NCDC’s commitment to disease surveillance and response, stressing that the recent case highlights the risk of international transmission and the need for a sustained public health strategy.
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