17.09.2025 19:00
In the West African country of Nigeria, the disease Lassa fever, which is transmitted from animals to humans, is spreading rapidly. It has been reported that the number of cases observed this year has risen to 871, with the death toll reaching 162. Authorities are warning the public to avoid contact with rats and other rodents.
In Nigeria, a country in West Africa, it has been reported that the number of people who have died this year due to Lassa fever, which is transmitted from animals to humans, has risen to 162.
CASE NUMBERS CONTINUE TO RISE
In a statement from the Nigeria Center for Disease Control, it was noted that Lassa fever cases continue to rise in the country, including the capital Abuja and 21 other states. The statement reported that 10 new Lassa cases were observed between August 25-31, bringing the total number of Lassa cases from January 1 to August 31 to 871.
DEATH TOLL REACHES 162
The statement indicated that the number of people who have died from Lassa fever during this period has risen to 162. It was noted that the total number of suspected and confirmed cases in the country is lower compared to the same period last year, while warnings were issued regarding persistent risks.
EMERGENCY DECLARED IN 2019
Last year, 190 people died nationwide due to the Lassa virus. The Nigerian government declared a state of emergency on January 23, 2019, due to Lassa fever. Lassa fever, which has been observed in many African countries such as Mali, Togo, Ghana, Liberia, and Sierra Leone, was first identified in Nigeria in 1969 in Borno state in the northeast of the country.
WARNING FROM AUTHORITIES: DO NOT COME INTO CONTACT WITH THESE ANIMALS
The disease, which is transmitted through contact with rat droppings, can spread from person to person and lead to fatal hemorrhagic fever. Authorities are warning the public not to come into contact with rats and other rodents.