The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has confirmed 832 cases of Lassa fever and Mpox combined, along with 1,307 suspected cases of cholera, resulting in a total of 169 deaths across the country so far in 2025.
This was disclosed by the NCDC Director General, Dr. Jide Idris, during a national health security briefing held in Abuja on Friday, where he emphasized that the agency remains committed to its role of safeguarding public health by ensuring the timely dissemination of accurate and transparent health information.
Idris said the NCDC, in conjunction with State Health Ministries and development partners, continues to maintain a close watch over infectious disease trends through its surveillance systems while supporting affected areas with appropriate interventions.
“As of epidemiological week 16, Nigeria has recorded 4,253 suspected cases of Lassa fever, out of which 696 were confirmed, and 132 deaths reported, indicating a case fatality rate of 19%,” he said.
He noted a recent reduction in Lassa fever cases, citing improvements attributed to sustained surveillance, community outreach, and clinical response.
However, he warned that the disease remains a threat, particularly in areas where it is endemic.
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On Mpox, the NCDC chief revealed that 723 suspected cases had been recorded between January and mid-April, with 136 confirmed across 27 States and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
The death toll from Mpox, according to him, stands at three, involving patients with underlying health conditions, including HIV and tuberculosis.
“The pattern of Mpox infections indicates persistent transmission across the country, with confirmed cases largely concentrated in the southern and central regions,” he said, adding that the virus has affected people from various professions, students, traders, civil servants, and healthcare workers underscoring the risk of both community and hospital-acquired infections.
On Mpox fatalities, Idris confirmed that a national mortality review is underway to determine gaps in care and identify lessons for future response.
On cholera, Idris reported 1,307 suspected cases spanning 30 States and 98 Local Government Areas (LGAs), with 34 related deaths, putting the case fatality rate at 2.6%, which is higher than the WHO target of below 1%.
