By Nafisat Makinde
The West African Health Organisation (WAHO) has announced a significant expansion of the Lassa Fever Coalition, welcoming three new regional health partners: Corona Management Systems, Nigeria Health Watch, and Bloom Public Health. This strategic move aims to accelerate vaccine access and combat Lassa fever across West Africa.
According to a press statement disclosed by Alaba Balogun, Deputy Director, Press & Public Relations, the Coalition, supported by the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI), brings together Ministers of Health from affected countries, including Benin, Guinea, Liberia, Nigeria, and Sierra Leone.
Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate, Nigeria’s Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, emphasized the importance of regional solidarity in achieving health security. “The expansion of the Lassa Fever Coalition is not just a strategic step; it is a powerful affirmation of what is possible when African nations rise together in common cause.”
The Lassa fever outbreak in West Africa has reached alarming proportions, with over 900,000 people infected annually in Benin, Guinea, Liberia, Nigeria, Sierra Leone, and Togo. In Nigeria alone, more than 411 people have been infected with Lassa fever since January 1, 2024.
Lassa fever is a viral hemorrhagic illness that can cause severe symptoms, including bleeding, fever, and long-term complications like hearing loss. Climate change and population growth are expected to increase the number of people at risk, potentially reaching 600 million by 2050.
WAHO Director General, Dr. Melchior Athanase Joël C. Aissi, emphasized the urgent need for transnational cooperation. “In today’s interconnected world, no single country can address Lassa fever alone.”
The Coalition’s expanded Secretariat will be headquartered in Nigeria, with teams deployed in Liberia, Sierra Leone, Guinea, and Benin. Their work will include supporting vaccine R&D, liaising with developers and funders, strengthening scientific capacity for clinical trials, and creating end-to-end vaccine access plans tailored to regional needs.
CEPI CEO Dr. Richard Hatchett highlighted the critical role of the Coalition’s expanded Secretariat in turning vaccine research into reality. “Their regional expertise is vital to creating an environment where vaccine development and access strategies can thrive.”
WAHO will convene the 2nd Lassa Fever International Conference from September 22-26, 2025, in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, under the theme: “Beyond Borders: STRENGTHENING REGIONAL COOPERATION TO COMBAT LASSA FEVER AND EMERGING INFECTIOUS DISEASES”. The conference will gather scientists, policymakers, vaccine developers, and civil society groups to review progress, share insights, and forge partnerships to combat Lassa fever and prepare for future outbreaks. Details on abstract submissions and registration are available at www.lassafeverinternationalconference.org/abstract.
