The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention reported 2,122 suspected cases, 411 confirmed cases, and 72 deaths from Lassa fever in Nigeria as of February 11, 2024. The virus, caused by the Mastomys natalensis rodent, spreads through direct contact with infected rats, objects, household items, and contaminated food or water. The number of confirmed cases increased from 70 in Week 5 to 83 in Week 6, with 72 deaths reported from Week 1 to 6, for a case fatality rate of 17.5%.
The confirmed cases were recorded in 21 states and 78 local government areas in the country.
The predominant age group affected is 21–30 years old, with a male-to-female ratio of 1:1. The number of suspected cases increased compared to 2023.