“The recent global health crises have underscored the importance of proactive measures to prevent, detect, and respond to emerging health threats.’’
“Twenty-five states recorded at least one confirmed case across 125 local government areas in 2024.’’
The NCDC boss said 164 suspected cases, including four fatalities, of the disease, had been recorded in six wards across the Isa Local Government Area of Sokoto.
The director-general said the roadmap aims “to make NCDC a world-renowned health institute.”
Also, data from the Africa CDC estimates 100,000 to 300,000 annual Lassa fever infections in West Africa, with approximately 5,000 deaths.
He emphasised the importance of early detection, prompt treatment, and community engagement in curbing the spread of the disease.
The healthcare personnel presumably contracted the disease from an infected patient who came to the facility around February 11 and died later on.
The centre said the predominant age group affected by Lassa fever was 21-30 years.
Mr Idris succeeds Ifedayo Adetifa, who has headed the NCDC since September 6, 2021.
Mr Balogun urged participants to demonstrate confidence in their ability to succeed.
