The figures were reported in the agency’s situation report for epidemiological weeks 39 and 40, covering September 21 to October 4, 2026. The reported fatality rate is higher than the 18.6 per cent recorded during the corresponding period in 2025.

The report indicated that infections had been recorded in 119 Local Government Areas across the affected states, highlighting the continued public health challenge posed by the disease.

Bauchi, Ondo, Taraba, Benue and Edo reportedly accounted for 88 per cent of confirmed cases during the reporting period. People aged between 21 and 30 years remained the most affected age group.

Nigeria recorded three new confirmed cases in epidemiological week 40, covering September 28 to October 4, compared with 13 cases in the preceding week. The latest cases were reported in Bauchi and Benue states.

During week 39, the country recorded 13 new confirmed cases, up from 11 in week 38. The cases reported during week 39 were attributed to Ondo State, bringing the cumulative number of confirmed infections to 1,134 and deaths to 267, according to the figures provided in the report.

The NCDC also reported that no additional healthcare worker was infected during weeks 39 and 40.

Lassa fever is an acute viral illness primarily transmitted to humans through food and household items contaminated by infected rodents’ urine or faeces. Human-to-human transmission can also occur through contact with an infected person’s blood or other bodily fluids, particularly where appropriate infection prevention and control measures are not followed.

The disease can cause serious illness, making early recognition and prompt medical attention important. Symptoms may include fever, weakness, headache and, in severe cases, bleeding.

To reduce the risk of infection, the public is advised to maintain clean surroundings, dispose of refuse properly, store food in tightly covered, rodent-proof containers and prevent rats from entering homes and food-storage areas.

Healthcare facilities are also expected to maintain appropriate infection prevention measures to protect patients and medical personnel.

The reported figures underscore the need for continued surveillance, public awareness and coordinated prevention efforts in communities affected by Lassa fever.

Reporting by TalkNaijaMedia