Bauchi, Taraba among hardest-hit states as Lassa fever cases surge

The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has confirmed that Bauchi and Taraba are among the hardest-hit states as Lassa fever cases continue to rise in Nigeria.

Between December 30, 2024, and January 12, 2025, 143 cases were confirmed out of 484 suspected cases across seven states and 32 local government areas.

The NCDC’s situation report on Wednesday revealed that Bauchi and Taraba accounted for a significant share of the infections and fatalities recorded during the period.

A total of 22 deaths were reported, with Taraba recording six fatalities and Bauchi two.

“In week two, the number of new confirmed cases increased from 54 in epi week one, of 2025 to 89. These were reported in Ondo, Edo, Taraba, Bauchi, Gombe, Kogi, and Ebonyi states,” the report stated.

Cumulatively, 77% of the confirmed Lassa fever cases were recorded in Ondo, Edo, and Bauchi.

Bauchi alone contributed 17% of the total confirmed cases, highlighting its burden in the ongoing outbreak.

The report also noted that the predominant age group affected is 21-30 years, with a median age of 32 years. “The male-to-female ratio for confirmed cases is 1:0.7,” it added.

The NCDC emphasized that the National Lassa Fever Multi-Partner, Multi-Sectoral Incident Management System has been activated to coordinate response activities at all levels.

Bauchi, Taraba among hardest-hit states as Lassa fever cases surge