Lassa fever, a severe viral hemorrhagic illness, has claimed the life of a 31-year-old physician in Nigeria, raising concerns about the ongoing outbreak in the country. The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) confirmed the death, marking a tragic turn in the fight against the disease. The physician, who had recently returned from the United Kingdom, sought treatment at a private health facility in Ondo State after experiencing symptoms. Despite efforts to manage his condition, he succumbed to the illness shortly after. Laboratory tests subsequently confirmed Lassa fever as the cause of death. This case highlights the importance of vigilance and rapid response in containing the spread of the disease, especially considering the individual’s travel history and potential exposure to others.
The NCDC’s report paints a grim picture of the Lassa fever situation in Nigeria. As of early March 2025, a total of 535 confirmed cases and 98 deaths have been reported across 14 states, with a concerning case fatality rate of 18.3%. Five states, Ondo, Bauchi, Edo, Taraba, and Ebonyi, bear the brunt of the outbreak, accounting for 91% of the confirmed cases. Furthermore, the concentration of cases within specific local government areas emphasizes the localized nature of transmission and the need for targeted interventions. The NCDC’s data reveals a peak transmission period between October and May, coinciding with the dry season. This information is crucial for public health campaigns focused on preventative measures during high-risk periods.
The unfortunate case of the physician highlights the potential for the virus to spread beyond the immediate environment. Before traveling to the UK, the physician had visited his fiancée in Edo State and interacted with family and friends, potentially exposing them to the virus. This underscores the importance of swift contact tracing and monitoring to prevent further transmission. The NCDC, in collaboration with the Ondo State Ministry of Health, initiated comprehensive contact tracing efforts, including contacting individuals who interacted with the deceased physician both in Nigeria and the UK. This underscores the importance of international collaboration in managing outbreaks and preventing the spread of infectious diseases across borders. The involvement of Port Health Services further strengthens surveillance at points of entry, aiming to identify and manage potential cases early on.
Lassa fever is primarily transmitted through contact with infected rodents, specifically the multimammate rat. These rodents shed the virus in their urine, faeces, and saliva, contaminating food, water, and household items. Direct contact with these contaminated materials or consuming contaminated food and drinks can lead to infection. Furthermore, person-to-person transmission is possible through contact with the bodily fluids of infected individuals, particularly in healthcare settings where infection control measures might be inadequate. This underscores the importance of stringent infection control protocols in hospitals and clinics to prevent the spread of Lassa fever among healthcare workers and patients.
The early symptoms of Lassa fever often mimic those of other common febrile illnesses, such as malaria, making diagnosis challenging. Symptoms include headache, general body weakness, cough, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, muscle pains, chest pain, and sore throat. In severe cases, patients may experience bleeding from various orifices, including the ears, eyes, nose, and mouth. This similarity in symptoms can lead to delays in diagnosis and treatment, increasing the risk of severe complications. Early detection and prompt treatment are crucial for improving patient outcomes. Therefore, healthcare providers should maintain a high index of suspicion for Lassa fever, especially during the peak transmission season and in areas with known outbreaks.
Public health education plays a vital role in preventing Lassa fever transmission. Promoting community awareness about the disease, its transmission routes, and preventive measures can empower individuals to protect themselves and their families. This includes emphasizing proper hygiene practices, safe food storage and handling, and rodent control measures. Healthcare workers also require ongoing training on infection prevention and control practices to minimize the risk of nosocomial transmission. The NCDC’s public advisory serves as a critical tool in disseminating information and guiding preventive measures, ensuring a coordinated and effective response to the ongoing outbreak.
