Photo File: Lassa fever

The Executive Director of the International Centre of Excellence (IRCE), Prof. Alash’le Abimiku, has said that genetic similarities among Lassa virus strains across Nigeria and West Africa increase the chances of developing a single, broadly protective vaccine.

Speaking ahead of the Institute of Human Virology Nigeria’s (IHVN) 3rd Annual Scientific Symposium in Abuja, themed “Combating Viral Threats through Public Health Response and Research,” Abimiku explained that the IRCE has studied both the virus and its rodent host to assess variations across states. “Results so far indicate that strains across Nigeria are very similar. That is good for vaccine development because one vaccine could cut across,” she said.

Lassa fever is an acute viral haemorrhagic illness transmitted mainly through food or household items contaminated with infected rats’ excreta. It is endemic in Nigeria, with high case fatality rates (15–20% among hospitalised patients).

According to the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC), between January and late August 2025, Nigeria recorded 857 confirmed Lassa fever cases and 160 deaths (18.7% case fatality rate) across 21 states. Ondo, Bauchi, Edo, Taraba and Ebonyi account for 90% of infections, with people aged 21–30 most affected.

Abimiku noted that several vaccine candidates are already undergoing trials in Nigeria, Liberia and Senegal, and that findings from Nigeria will be key to shaping their effectiveness.

She also highlighted the impact of suspended U.S. funding on HIV/AIDS research at IHVN, urging governments and organisations to increase domestic research funding.