Niger Delta Weekly Conflict Update: April 14 - 20, 2024

This special edition of the weekly update spotlights emerging threats to public health and human security in the Niger Delta with a focus on the outbreak of Lassa fever in the region. Lassa Fever is a zoonotic and acute viral disease caused by the Lassa virus. It is transmitted through food and household items contaminated by infected rodents and contact with infected persons. Symptoms include fever, weakness, headache, cough, diarrhea, chest pain and breathing problems. It is an epidemic-prone infectious disease with significant public health consequences. Recent epidemiological data from the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) shows a resurgence of Lassa fever in Edo and Ondo States. According to NCDC’s Lassa fever Situation Report, as of March 31, 2024, 46% of 806 new confirmed cases in Nigeria were reported in Ondo and Edo States. According to data, more than 370 confirmed cases of Lassa fever and over 35 fatalities were reported in Ondo and Edo State during the period. Confirmed cases and related fatalities were also reported in Bayelsa, Cross River, Delta, Imo and Rivers State during the period.