Joe Tucker, a U.S.-based infectious disease physician, has emphasised the need for Nigeria to strengthen its response to Lassa fever by increasing research funding, advocacy, and community engagement.

Mr Tucker said this on the sidelines of the ongoing 2026 Designathon organised by the Innovative Network on the Science and Practice of Implementation, Research and Engagement.

The event, held in Lagos, is aimed at scaling up lenacapavir for youth-centred HIV/AIDS prevention and care across Africa.

The physician, who works at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, U.S., said these strategies must be adopted effectively to tackle the viral infection.

Lassa fever is an acute zoonotic viral haemorrhagic illness endemic in West Africa, caused by the Lassa virus and transmitted mainly by Mastomys rats.

According to the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control, as of April, the country has recorded 663 confirmed cases and 167 deaths across 22 states.

Mr Tucker said increased investment in research is critical for Nigeria to win the fight against Lassa fever.

“Health institutions such as the Nigerian Institute of Medical Research and others should be well funded and supported to play key roles in addressing emerging and re-emerging pathogens like Lassa fever.

“Increased advocacy and community engagement are also important, as the fight against Lassa fever cannot be left to researchers alone. Community-based organisations and the general public must be actively involved in awareness and prevention efforts,” he said.

Mr Tucker, also a professor of global health at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, called for stronger training to equip researchers and healthcare workers to respond effectively to outbreaks.

On Lassa fever vaccine development, the expert acknowledged ongoing global research efforts but cautioned that a breakthrough may take time.

“There are many researchers working on vaccines, but it is not something that will happen overnight. We need sustained investment in basic science and vaccinology. A reliable Lassa fever vaccine will require long-term dedication and resources,” he said.

(NAN)