Emerging Infectious Diseases (Jun 2019)

Epidemiologic and Clinical Features of Lassa Fever Outbreak in Nigeria, January 1–May 6, 2018

  • Elsie A. Ilori,
  • Yuki Furuse,
  • Oladipupo B. Ipadeola,
  • Chioma C. Dan-Nwafor,
  • Anwar Abubakar,
  • Oboma E. Womi-Eteng,
  • Ephraim Ogbaini-Emovon,
  • Sylvanus Okogbenin,
  • Uche Unigwe,
  • Emeka Ogah,
  • Olufemi Ayodeji,
  • Chukwuyem Abejegah,
  • Ahmed A. Liasu,
  • Emmanuel O. Musa,
  • Solomon F. Woldetsadik,
  • Clement L.P. Lasuba,
  • Wondimagegnehu Alemu,
  • Chikwe Ihekweazu

DOI
https://doi.org/10.3201/eid2506.181035
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 25, no. 6
pp. 1066 – 1074

Abstract

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Lassa fever (LF) is endemic to Nigeria, where the disease causes substantial rates of illness and death. In this article, we report an analysis of the epidemiologic and clinical aspects of the LF outbreak that occurred in Nigeria during January 1–May 6, 2018. A total of 1,893 cases were reported; 423 were laboratory-confirmed cases, among which 106 deaths were recorded (case-fatality rate 25.1%). Among all confirmed cases, 37 occurred in healthcare workers. The secondary attack rate among 5,001 contacts was 0.56%. Most (80.6%) confirmed cases were reported from 3 states (Edo, Ondo, and Ebonyi). Fatal outcomes were significantly associated with being elderly; no administration of ribavirin; and the presence of a cough, hemorrhaging, and unconsciousness. The findings in this study should lead to further LF research and provide guidance to those preparing to respond to future outbreaks.

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