Lassa Fever Outbreak Worsens: Dozens Dead in Taraba, Benue as Cases Rise Across Multiple States

Nigeria is grappling with a worsening Lassa fever outbreak, with fresh fatalities reported in Taraba, Benue, Plateau, and Edo states, and national data showing a steady rise in confirmed infections. In Taraba, the Federal Medical Centre Jalingo confirmed 35 deaths from 95 positive cases among 226 suspected admissions, one of the most severe outbreaks in recent years. Three hospital staff contracted the virus, with a driver dying. In Benue, 10 health workers have died, including five doctors, four nurses, two community health extension workers, and a porter.

The state recorded 45 confirmed cases from 250 suspected infections. Plateau confirmed four deaths across seven LGAs, including a medical practitioner, with another doctor hospitalized. Edo declared an outbreak with 29 confirmed cases and six deaths. NCDC data shows 82 confirmed cases and 75 deaths in 2026, with a 23% case fatality rate—higher than 2025. Sixteen states across 58 LGAs have reported cases.

Key Points

The death of 10 health workers in Benue highlights the grave occupational risks faced by medical personnel.
Taraba’s 35 deaths represent a severe outbreak overwhelming local healthcare capacity.
The 23% CFR exceeds last year’s rate, suggesting either more virulent strain or delayed treatment.
Spread across 16 states indicates widespread environmental contamination or surveillance gaps.
Healthcare worker deaths threaten the already fragile response capacity in affected states.

Nigeria’s Lassa fever outbreak has escalated into a public health emergency, claiming dozens of lives, including at least 11 health workers, as the virus spreads across 16 states and the national response struggles to contain its deadly advance.

Sources: NCDC Reports, State Health Ministries