Why Lassa Fever Cases And Deaths Are Rising In Nigeria

Lassa fever is back in the headlines and in hospitals.As Nigeria moves deeper into 2026, fresh data from the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention shows a troubling rise in confirmed cases and deaths across several states. Behind the numbers are families grieving, health workers under pressure, and communities once again confronting a disease that has become a seasonal threat.Why are infections increasing? Are response efforts enough? And what must Nigerians do differently this time?Today on Nigeria Daily, we unpack the rising cases, the government’s response, and what this means for you.