Nigeria has recorded 259 deaths and 1,086 confirmed Lassa fever cases across 24 states and 118 local government areas in 2026, according to the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC).
The agency disclosed the figures in its latest situation report for epidemiological week 36, covering August 31 to September 6.
The report showed that 12 new cases were confirmed during the week, down from 18 the previous week. The latest infections were reported in Ondo, Edo and Kogi states.
Five states, Bauchi, Ondo, Taraba, Benue and Edo, accounted for 87 per cent of all confirmed cases recorded nationwide this year.
The NCDC also reported that no new healthcare worker infections were recorded during the reporting week.
Lassa fever is a viral haemorrhagic disease primarily transmitted to humans through contact with food or household items contaminated by infected rodents. It can also spread between people, particularly in healthcare settings without adequate infection prevention measures.