NCDC Sounds Alarm: 2 Health Workers Dead and 15 Infected as Lassa Fever Surges in 2026

The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has re-issued a stringent national advisory, demanding immediate and unwavering adherence to Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) protocols as the 2025/2026 Lassa fever season hits its dangerous peak.

In an official communiqué released today, NCDC Director – General Dr. Jide Idris highlighted the grave risks facing medical personnel, expressing condolences for the 15 healthcare workers infected and the two lives lost already this season. He emphasized that the safety of the health workforce is the cornerstone of the national response.

Data and Vulnerabilities

As of early February 2026, surveillance reveals a troubling trend. Outbreaks are concentrated in known hotspots across Ondo, Edo, Bauchi, Taraba, Ebonyi, and Benue. However, the risk is not confined to treatment centers.

Critical Gaps Identified:

• The “Suspicion” Deficit: Many staff fail to consider Lassa fever for patients presenting with common flu-like symptoms in general outpatient wards.

• PPE Inconsistency: While equipment is often available, its application remains sporadic or technically flawed during routine patient contact.

• Delayed Treatment: On average, infected healthcare workers wait six days before seeking professional care, often attempting self-medication due to social stigma.

Mandatory Protective Measures

The NCDC has mandated that Standard Precautions be applied to every patient, regardless of their initial diagnosis.

Core Defense Requirements:

• Universal Hand Hygiene: Rigorous washing with soap and running water or alcohol-based rubs before and after every clinical interaction.

• Risk-Based PPE: The consistent use of medical gloves, fluid-resistant gowns, and eye protection during any procedure involving body fluids.

• Environmental Rigor: Stringent disinfection of surfaces and beddings, alongside secure medical waste management to prevent rodent attraction.

Institutional and National Response

The federal government, in coordination with state ministries, is currently:

1. Distributing emergency stocks of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to high-burden local government areas.

2. Deploying Rapid Response Teams to states with rising healthcare worker infection rates.

3. Establishing clearer referral pathways and functional isolation zones in secondary and tertiary facilities.

The NCDC reminds all personnel that Lassa fever is highly transmissible through direct contact with infected blood, urine, or vomit. Early detection and immediate reporting are the only ways to prevent a facility-wide outbreak.

Report all suspected cases to your Local Government DSNO or call the NCDC toll-free line: 6232.