NCDC flags Lassa fever preparedness gaps, rolls out readiness plan

Summary

The NCDC says it has identified gaps in Nigeria’s Lassa fever response and introduced a readiness plan ahead of the 2026/2027 peak season.

Highlights

• The agency said delays in seeking care, infections among health workers and weak facility functionality could affect preparedness.
• Jide Idris said an after-action review of the 2026 response found problems with self-treatment, patients visiting multiple providers before Lassa fever is suspected, and delayed resource release.
• The review also pointed to limited state ownership and over-reliance on national resources.
• The NCDC said the peak Lassa fever season usually runs from November to April.
• Its Accelerated Readiness Plan will focus on earlier detection, reporting, sanitation, safer food handling and reducing rodent exposure.