Current Trends of Lassa fever amidst COVID-19 Pandemic in Nigeria

Abstract

Lassa fever is a disease endemic in West Africa caused by the Lassa virus (LASV). The emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic has put an extra burden on Nigeria in the fight against infectious disease outbreaks. Lassa fever cases peak seasonally in the first three months of the year. Despite the reduction in the epidemiological trends in 2021, the current trends of the Lassa fever cases in Nigeria in 2022 indicate that the virus is still being actively transmitted in the country with some large states regarded as high burden areas. There are requirements to increase in vaccine uptake for COVID-19, to strengthen the testing capacities for LASV, and develop licensed LASV vaccine, in order to eradicate these viral diseases of concern. This study aims to identify the current trends of Lassa fever in Nigeria, measures and challenges and suggest strategies for curtailing the spread.