NCDC Confirms Lassa Fever Death of UK Returnee, Raises Public Alert

The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has confirmed the death of a 31-year-old physician from Lassa fever after returning from the United Kingdom. The deceased had traveled from Nigeria on February 19 and returned on February 27. Shortly after, he developed symptoms and sought treatment at a private hospital in Ondo State.

According to the NCDC, samples were collected on February 28, but before test results could confirm a Lassa fever infection, the doctor passed away on March 1. The laboratory results later confirmed the presence of the virus on March 4.

Before falling ill, the physician had visited his fiancée in Edo State, along with family and friends, prompting health authorities to begin contact tracing. The NCDC is working closely with the Ondo State Ministry of Health to monitor and contain the spread of the disease.

As of March 2, Nigeria has recorded 2,728 suspected Lassa fever cases, with 535 confirmed infections across 14 states. The virus has claimed 98 lives this year, bringing the fatality rate to 18.3%. Ondo, Bauchi, Edo, Taraba, and Ebonyi states account for 91% of the confirmed cases.

Lassa fever is a viral hemorrhagic illness primarily spread through contact with food or household items contaminated by infected rodents. It can also be transmitted from person to person, particularly in healthcare settings with inadequate infection control measures.

The NCDC has issued a public advisory, urging Nigerians to practice proper hygiene, store food securely, and reduce rodent exposure to prevent infection. Healthcare workers have also been advised to strictly adhere to infection prevention and control measures when treating suspected cases.

Due to the physician’s recent travel history, the UK Health Security Agency has been notified, though British authorities have stated that the risk of an outbreak remains very low, as Lassa fever is not easily transmitted between people.

The NCDC continues to monitor the situation and collaborate with local and international partners to curb the spread of the virus and safeguard public health.