Nigeria Lassa fever outbreak 2026
Analysis based on 18 articles · First reported Jul 10, 2026 · Last updated Jul 14, 2026
The outbreak may strain Nigeria's healthcare system and increase public health spending. However, the direct financial market impact is limited as Lassa fever is endemic and the outbreak is not causing widespread economic disruption.
The Nigeria — Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) reported a rise in Lassa fever cases during epidemiological week 26 of 2026, with 31 new infections, up from 22 the previous week. Cumulative deaths reached 221, with a case fatality rate of 24.0%, higher than 18.7% in 2025. The disease has spread to 23 states and 111 local government areas. Five states account for 85% of confirmed cases: Ondo (30%), Bauchi (26%), Taraba (14%), Edo (9%), and Benue (6%). Young adults aged 21-30 are most affected. One healthcare worker was infected in week 26. The NCDC's incident management system remains activated for response.
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