At the heart of the fight against Lassa fever is a crucial alliance between academia and the community, a partnership that is essential to advance vaccine research and development in Nigeria. In a fascinating lecture, Dr Okoeguale shared his expertise in a presentation titled: “Academia-Community Collaboration in Lassa Fever Research: Advances in Diagnostic Capacity and Vaccine Development in Nigeria”.
Lassa fever, classified by WHO as a priority disease for research and development, continues to take a heavy toll. The figures are alarming: in 2024, over 240 cases were recorded in a matter of months, resulting in the loss of over 21 lives. A situation that calls for concerted and urgent action.
Dr Okoeguale, a consultant in Obstetrics and Gynaecology, stressed that the best way to end this scourge is through prevention and vaccination. Lassa fever, which affects all age groups and both men and women, continues to claim lives relentlessly due to lack of proper diagnosis and management.
With the surge in Lassa fever cases, it is imperative to strengthen diagnostic and vaccine development capacities. It is against this backdrop that the centre has initiated trials to develop new treatments and vaccines for the disease. The centre has state-of-the-art clinical trial and sequencing facilities and is actively collaborating with renowned international partners such as the United States Center for Disease Control and the Nigeria Center for Disease Control.
Prof. Dawood Egbefo, Acting Vice-Chancellor, stressed the need for close collaboration between academia, communities and health agencies to effectively combat Lassa fever. A multidimensional approach that emphasizes research, innovation and intervention to counter this growing health threat.
The goal is clear: to strengthen diagnostic capacities, accelerate the development of effective vaccines and develop prevention strategies adapted to this local context. In addition, the conference has generated constructive dialogue and strong partnerships to jointly address the challenges posed by Lassa fever and other emerging health threats.
In a region where Lassa fever is endemic, research and innovation are essential to save lives, reduce morbidity and strengthen health systems. By joining forces, the university and the community are charting a path towards a safer and healthier future for all.