The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC), yesterday, in an advisory to healthcare workers, called for a heightened index of suspicion and strict compliance with Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) measures, following a disturbing rise in Lassa fever infections among medical personnel.

In a public health advisory released at the peak of the 2025/2026 Lassa fever transmission season, the NCDC confirmed that 15 healthcare workers had tested positive for Lassa fever, with two fatalities recorded as of Epidemiological Week 7.

“The safety of healthcare workers remains our highest priority.

“We urge all healthcare personnel to take every necessary measure to prevent Lassa fever infection and the associated loss of life.”

It expressed deep sympathy over the recent infections and deaths, describing the trend as “deeply concerning” and avoidable with strict adherence to standard precautions.

According to the NCDC, investigations into each healthcare worker’s infection revealed troubling gaps in infection prevention and control practices.

The agency, however, identified a low index of suspicion among healthcare workers, inconsistent availability and improper use of personal protective equipment (PPE), and underestimation of risks in outpatient departments and general wards as major drivers of infections.

The advisory also noted that non-clinical members of staff, including cleaners, porters, and administrative officers, are equally at risk and must be included in IPC training and protective measures.

The NCDC noted that infections in healthcare settings typically occur through contact with infected blood, urine, vomit, or other body fluids, performing clinical procedures without adequate PPE, poor hand hygiene, handling contaminated instruments, and delayed recognition and isolation of suspected cases.

It stressed that standard precautions must be always applied to all patients, regardless of diagnosis.

The NCDC urged states and health facilities to establish functional isolation areas, maintain designated treatment centres where possible, and ensure clear referral pathways for suspected cases.