Twin epidemics of Lassa fever and meningitis continue to ravage Nigeria, with the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) reporting a combined death toll of 366 across the country in 2025, underscoring an urgent public health crisis.
The latest figures highlight the persistent strain these infectious diseases place on the healthcare system, especially in high-burden states.
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Between January 1 and May 18, the NCDC recorded 733 confirmed cases of Lassa fever from over 5,100 suspected cases spanning 18 states and 95 local government areas. Tragically, the disease has resulted in 141 deaths so far this year, with a case fatality rate (CFR) of 19.2%, which is higher than the 18.3% recorded in the same period last year.
Meningitis, another deadly disease, has accounted for 225 deaths from 192 confirmed cases reported between September 30, 2024, and April 6, 2025. According to the NCDC, 24 states and 173 LGAs have been affected, with children aged 5–14 years identified as the most vulnerable group. The CFR for meningitis stands at 7.7%, with males representing 60% of all cases.
The most recent Lassa fever surveillance report reveals a troubling rise in infections in week 20, with 13 new cases reported in Edo, Ondo, and Benue, a significant jump from just three the previous week. Ondo, Bauchi, and Edo states collectively account for 72% of all confirmed cases, signaling the need for focused intervention in these areas.
In response to the worsening situation, the NCDC has activated national multi-sectoral response mechanisms.
The Lassa Fever Incident Management System and a separate Emergency Operations Centre for meningitis are now coordinating nationwide efforts.
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These include real-time surveillance, technical assistance to states, and collaboration with key agencies such as the Federal Ministry of Health and the Nigerian Meteorological Agency.
Authorities continue to emphasize the importance of early detection, reporting, and community awareness.
While some progress has been made in reducing infection rates compared to 2024, the agency remains on high alert and committed to mitigating the health risks posed by these epidemics, especially in underserved and vulnerable regions.
