The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) has reported a decline in new confirmed Lassa fever cases, even as the death toll from the disease has risen to 170 across the country.
In its latest situation report for epidemiological week 14 of 2026, the agency said 22 new confirmed cases were recorded, down from 26 cases reported in the previous week.
The NCDC noted that infections were recorded across eight states—Ondo, Bauchi, Edo, Benue, Taraba, Plateau, Ebonyi and Kogi—indicating continued spread of the disease.
Despite the drop in weekly infections, the agency said the case fatality rate has increased to 24.8 per cent, compared to 18.8 per cent recorded during the same period in 2025.
The development comes as the Oyo State Government confirmed the death of a 44-year-old woman from Lassa fever at the University College Hospital, Ibadan.
The Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Dotun Oyelade, said the patient died on April 11, while laboratory confirmation of Lassa fever was received on April 13.
He added that the state had activated its emergency response system, including contact tracing and monitoring of persons who may have come in contact with the deceased, as well as plans for a safe burial.
According to the NCDC, a total of 22 states across 94 local government areas have recorded at least one confirmed case of Lassa fever in 2026, highlighting the endemic nature of the disease.
The agency said 84 per cent of confirmed cases were concentrated in five states—Bauchi, Ondo, Taraba, Edo and Benue—with Bauchi accounting for the highest share.
It also revealed that young adults aged 21 to 30 years remain the most affected group, while the gender distribution is nearly equal.
The report noted that although suspected cases have declined compared to 2025, confirmed cases have increased, suggesting improved testing but continued transmission.
The NCDC further expressed concern over infections among healthcare workers, with one new case recorded in the week under review.
The agency said it has activated a national multi-partner Incident Management System and is working with organisations such as the World Health Organisation, UNICEF and the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to strengthen response efforts.
It added that measures including infection prevention training, community sensitisation, contact tracing and distribution of protective equipment are ongoing to contain the outbreak.
The NCDC urged Nigerians to maintain proper hygiene, report symptoms early and adhere to preventive measures, especially in high-risk communities.