The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) says that no fewer than 17 people have died from Lassa fever across eight states in Nigeria in the first three weeks of 2026. The center said that the country recorded 93 confirmed cases from the states. The agency said that 89 per cent of all confirmed cases were reported from Bauchi, Ondo, Taraba and Edo states, while the remaining 11 per cent came from five other states. The agency also advised Nigerians to observe good hygiene practices and promptly report suspected cases to health authorities. Our correspondent reports that Lassa fever is an acute viral haemorrhagic illness caused by the Lassa virus, first identified in 1969 in the town of Lassa, Borno State.