Lassa fever is one of the most serious viral diseases affecting Nigeria and several West African countries. Classified as an acute viral haemorrhagic illness, it is caused by the Lassa virus, primarily spread through contact with food or household items contaminated by rodents.
In Nigeria, outbreaks of Lassa fever are seasonal, often peaking during the dry season between December and April. According to the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), thousands of suspected cases are reported annually, with confirmed infections leading to hundreds of deaths.
TJ News Nigeria reports that Lassa fever has become a recurring public health challenge in the country due to widespread rodent infestation, poor sanitation, and late detection of symptoms.
This article provides a detailed look at the early signs of Lassa fever, symptoms, causes, and prevention methods, with practical tips for Nigerian households.
What is Lassa Fever?
Lassa fever is a zoonotic disease, meaning it is transmitted from animals to humans. The virus was first discovered in 1969 in Lassa town, Borno State, Nigeria. It is now recognized as endemic in Nigeria and other West African countries such as Sierra Leone, Liberia, and Guinea.
The disease is considered a viral haemorrhagic fever (VHF), similar to Ebola but less contagious. While many infected people may show mild or no symptoms, severe cases can cause multi-organ failure and death if untreated.
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Causes of Lassa Fever in Nigeria
The primary cause of Lassa fever is infection with the Lassa virus, a member of the Arenavirus family.
Main Transmission Routes:
- Rodent exposure
- The multimammate rat (Mastomys natalensis) carries the virus.
- Humans get infected through contact with rat urine, droppings, or saliva in food and household items.
- Person-to-person transmission
- Occurs through direct contact with blood, body fluids, or excreta of infected individuals.
- Common in healthcare facilities without proper protective measures.
- Laboratory exposure
- Rare but possible when handling infected samples without biosafety precautions.
Early Signs and Symptoms of Lassa Fever
Recognizing early signs is crucial for timely treatment. Unfortunately, symptoms are often mistaken for malaria or typhoid fever, leading to late diagnosis.
Early Signs of Lassa Fever
- Fever lasting more than 2 days
- General weakness and tiredness
- Headache
- Sore throat and cough
- Muscle and joint pain
Advanced Symptoms
If untreated, symptoms can progress to severe complications such as:
- Facial swelling
- Chest pain and difficulty breathing
- Bleeding from gums, nose, or internal organs
- Persistent vomiting and diarrhoea
- Hearing loss (common long-term complication)
- Shock and organ failure in severe cases
Diagnosis of Lassa Fever
Due to overlapping symptoms with malaria and typhoid, laboratory testing is essential. The NCDC recommends Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) tests for confirmation.
Where Tests Are Conducted in Nigeria
- Designated Lassa fever treatment centres in states like Edo, Ondo, and Ebonyi.
- Reference laboratories approved by the NCDC.
Prevention of Lassa Fever in Nigeria
Since there is no licensed vaccine for Lassa fever yet, prevention remains the most effective approach.
Household Prevention Tips
- Rodent Control
- Keep food in rodent-proof containers.
- Dispose of garbage properly and maintain clean surroundings.
- Block rat entry points in homes.
- Food Safety
- Avoid drying food items like garri and grains in open spaces where rodents can contaminate them.
- Cook all foods thoroughly.
- Personal Hygiene
- Wash hands regularly with soap and clean water.
- Avoid touching eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
- Healthcare Protection
- Health workers should use gloves, masks, and protective gowns.
- Isolate suspected cases immediately.
Treatment of Lassa Fever
There is no specific cure for Lassa fever, but early treatment improves survival.
Available Treatment Options
- Ribavirin: An antiviral drug that is most effective when given early.
- Supportive Care: Rehydration, oxygen therapy, and treatment of secondary infections.
- Hospital Isolation: Prevents spread to other patients and healthcare workers.
Lassa Fever in Nigeria: Current Situation
According to the NCDC 2025 Weekly Situation Report, Nigeria continues to record Lassa fever cases across multiple states. Edo, Ondo, and Ebonyi are consistently among the most affected.
Factors contributing to the persistence of outbreaks include:
- High rodent population in rural areas.
- Poor hygiene and food storage practices.
- Limited access to diagnostic facilities in rural communities.
Key Takeaway
Lassa fever in Nigeria remains a recurring public health concern that requires vigilance at both community and government levels. Recognizing early symptoms, improving sanitation, and strengthening healthcare response systems are critical steps to reduce the disease burden.
FAQs on Lassa Fever in Nigeria
Q1: What are the early signs of Lassa fever in Nigeria?
The early signs include persistent fever, headache, weakness, and sore throat, often mistaken for malaria or typhoid.
Q2: How do people get Lassa fever in Nigeria?
Most cases are caused by contact with food or household items contaminated with rodent urine or faeces. Person-to-person spread also occurs.
Q3: Is there a vaccine for Lassa fever?
No, there is currently no licensed vaccine. Prevention focuses on rodent control, hygiene, and early treatment.
Q4: Which states in Nigeria are most affected by Lassa fever?
Edo, Ondo, and Ebonyi states consistently record the highest number of confirmed cases.
Q5: How can Nigerians prevent Lassa fever at home?
Store food in sealed containers, clean homes regularly, block rat entry points, and cook foods thoroughly before eating.
