The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has urged Nigerians to intensify preventive measures against Lassa fever ahead of the dry season, warning that cases typically rise between November and April.
The Director-General of the NCDC, Dr Jide Idris, gave the warning on Wednesday in Abuja during a national health security media briefing. He stressed the need for early preparedness ahead of the peak transmission period.
Idris noted that although Lassa fever occurs throughout the year, cases usually increase during the dry season, making the period before the peak season crucial for prevention and preparedness.
“Lassa fever occurs throughout the year, but cases tend to increase during the dry season, particularly between November and April. We are not yet in that peak period, and that gives us an important opportunity to act now,” he said.
The NCDC said findings from its After Action Review of the last Lassa fever outbreak revealed persistent gaps in early care-seeking, infection prevention and control, environmental sanitation, state-level preparedness and the functionality of health facilities.
According to the agency, delays in seeking appropriate medical care, self-medication and visits to multiple health facilities before Lassa fever was suspected created additional challenges in managing cases.
The review also identified infections among healthcare workers, particularly when health facilities were under pressure, as well as environmental and household risks linked to poor sanitation, unsafe food storage and exposure to rodents.
Idris said the findings highlighted the need to strengthen the entire response chain, from prevention and early detection to diagnosis, referral and treatment.
He disclosed that the NCDC had developed an Accelerated Readiness Plan to guide preparedness activities ahead of the peak Lassa fever season.
“Our approach during this period will be firmly grounded in One Health. Lassa fever cannot be prevented and controlled by the health sector acting alone. Health, Environment, Agriculture, Livestock, Local Governments and communities have distinct but complementary responsibilities,” he said.
According to him, the plan will focus on measures to be implemented between now and the peak season, with additional attention and resources directed to areas where available data indicate that the burden and risk are highest.
Under the plan, priority will be given to the early detection and reporting of suspected cases, reducing exposure to rodents, promoting prompt care-seeking and ensuring healthcare workers can recognise, report and appropriately refer suspected cases.
The agency also said efforts would be made to ensure the prompt transportation and testing of samples, as well as the timely communication of results to healthcare providers.
