First confirmed diagnosis of Lassa fever in Kebbi state, northwest Nigeria: Lessons to be learned.

This article focuses on the first confirmed cases of Lassa fever in Kebbi state, north central Nigeria, highlighting the challenges in diagnosis, management, and epidemiological response in a previously unreported area. Lassa fever, a viral hemorrhagic illness transmitted by the multimammate rat (Mastomys natalensis), was identified in a 26-year-old patient with no travel history to known endemic regions, followed by two additional cases among neighbors. The emergence of these cases suggests wider endemicity in the region, underscoring the need for active surveillance, improved coordination among health agencies, and enhanced emergency preparedness. The article also emphasizes logistical difficulties such as limited high-biosecurity laboratory capacity, delayed diagnostic turnaround, and the necessity for designated isolation facilities and consistent infection control training.