NCDC updates Lassa fever death rate to 19.3% as outbreak reaches 23 states (opens original article in a new tab)

Nigeria's NCDC reports a rise in Lassa fever death rate to 19.3% in 2026, with the outbreak affecting 23 states and primarily impacting young adults.

• NCDC reports Lassa fever case fatality rate increased to 19.3% in 2026 from 18.9% in 2025.
• Outbreak spreads across 23 states with confirmed cases in Edo, Ondo, Bauchi, and Ebonyi.
• Young adults aged 21-30 years are most affected, with 28% of cases in Ondo State.