Lassa fever infections in Nigeria have declined slightly, but the death rate has increased as the country continues to battle the outbreak.
According to the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), new cases dropped to 65 in the last week of February, down from 77 the previous week. However, the case fatality rate has risen to over 23%, compared to just under 19% during the same period last year.
Health officials say delayed treatment, poor sanitation, and low awareness in affected communities are major factors behind the rising deaths. Young adults aged 21 to 30 are the most impacted, with increasing infections also recorded among healthcare workers.
Lassa fever, first identified in 1969, is related to viruses like Ebola and Marburg virus disease. While many cases show no symptoms, severe infections can lead to internal bleeding and death, especially if not treated early.
There is currently no licensed vaccine for the disease.
