𝗟𝗮𝘀𝘀𝗮 𝗳𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗿: 𝗡𝗖𝗗𝗖, 𝗡𝗠𝗔 𝗶𝘀𝘀𝘂𝗲 𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗿𝗴𝗲𝗻𝗰𝘆 𝗮𝗹𝗲𝗿𝘁 𝘁𝗼 𝗱𝗼𝗰𝘁𝗼𝗿𝘀 𝗼𝘃𝗲𝗿 𝗿𝗶𝘀𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗰𝗮𝘀𝗲𝘀

The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) and the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) have issued an emergency alert to healthcare workers following a rise in reported cases of Lassa fever across parts of the country.
In separate advisories, the public health agency and the medical body urged doctors and other frontline health personnel to heighten surveillance, promptly identify suspected cases and ensure strict adherence to infection prevention and control measures in health facilities.
The NCDC noted that recent epidemiological reports indicate an increase in confirmed infections and fatalities linked to the viral haemorrhagic disease, particularly in some endemic states. It warned that early detection and timely treatment remain critical in reducing the risk of severe complications and deaths.
According to the agency, health institutions have been advised to strengthen case management protocols, maintain adequate supplies of personal protective equipment and sensitise staff on proper handling of suspected cases.
The NMA, on its part, called on its members nationwide to remain vigilant and prioritise patient safety while also protecting themselves from possible exposure during clinical duties.
Public health experts say Lassa fever, which is primarily transmitted through contact with food or household items contaminated by infected rodents, continues to pose a seasonal health challenge in Nigeria.
Authorities also urged members of the public to observe improved hygiene practices, store food items properly and seek medical attention early when symptoms such as fever, weakness, headache or bleeding occur.
The renewed alert comes amid ongoing efforts by health officials to curb the spread of infectious diseases and strengthen Nigeria’s disease surveillance and emergency response systems.