Health Alert: Lassa Fever Outbreak Intensifies in Nigeria as Global Food Safety Concerns Mount
October 12, 2025
Nigeria on High Alert as Lassa Fever Season Begins
Health authorities in Nigeria’s Kano State have issued an urgent public health advisory as the country enters the 2025/2026 Lassa fever season, with officials raising a red alert for potential outbreaks of both Lassa fever and Cerebrospinal Meningitis across the region.
The Kano State Centre for Disease Control (KNCDC) is coordinating emergency response activities and urging residents to observe strict hygiene and preventive measures as transmission risks escalate with the dry season.
Alarming Statistics Reveal Growing Crisis
According to the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control’s latest epidemiological report (Week 12, March 2025), the situation is deteriorating:
- 41 new confirmed cases reported in week 12 alone across 9 states
- 645 total confirmed cases and 119 deaths recorded for 2025 to date
- Case fatality rate of 18.4% — nearly one in five patients dying from the disease
- 70% of cases concentrated in just three states: Ondo, Bauchi, and Edo
- 18 states and 91 local government areas now affected
- One healthcare worker newly infected, highlighting occupational risks
Public health officials warn that Lassa fever transmission peaks during dry season months when increased contact between rodents and humans creates ideal conditions for the virus to spread. Authorities are recommending environmental management strategies, enhanced personal hygiene practices, and aggressive rodent control measures.
Health policy advocates are calling for increased national funding and comprehensive reforms to address recurring threats from Lassa fever, cholera, and potential Ebola risks in the region.
Widespread Listeria Contamination Triggers Food Recalls Across United States
Multiple food safety alerts have been issued across the United States due to potential Listeria monocytogenes contamination affecting a wide range of products.
The recalls include:
- Prepared pasta salads and deli items from national grocery chains
- A California company recall affecting approximately 245,000 pounds of pasta products
- Kroger deli recalls in Oregon
- Regional ready-made meals
- A specific shrimp scampi product flagged by the Hawaii Department of Health
Listeria contamination poses serious health risks, particularly for pregnant women, elderly individuals, and those with compromised immune systems. The bacteria can cause severe illness and, in some cases, death.
Consumers are advised to check their refrigerators for recalled products and dispose of them immediately or return them to the point of purchase for refunds.
Breakthrough HIV Prevention Drug Faces Access Challenges
Lenacapavir (marketed as Yeztugo), a long-acting injectable HIV prevention medication, has received both FDA and WHO approval and is being hailed as a potential game-changer in HIV prevention efforts.
The drug is now available in 120 low- and middle-income countries at approximately $40 per patient per year through a philanthropic pricing agreement — a stark contrast to its U.S. list price of approximately $28,000 annually.
Despite its promise, patient communities are reporting concerns about:
- Injection-site reactions including nodules and soreness
- Insurance coverage barriers in the United States
- Accessibility challenges due to high domestic pricing
The dramatic price disparity between international and U.S. markets has sparked renewed debate about pharmaceutical pricing practices and healthcare equity.
Measles Outbreaks Force Student Quarantines
Hundreds of students across the United States have been placed under quarantine as health officials work to contain ongoing measles outbreaks. The highly contagious viral disease has seen a resurgence in recent years, largely attributed to declining vaccination rates in some communities.
Health authorities are urging parents to ensure their children are up to date on measles vaccinations and to seek medical attention immediately if symptoms develop.
Public Health Advisory: Individuals concerned about any of these health issues should consult with healthcare providers and monitor official health department communications for updates. For food recalls, check the FDA and USDA recall databases. For disease outbreaks, refer to CDC and local health department websites for the latest information.