The West African Health Organization (WAHO) today successfully convened a high-impact virtual webinar under the theme, “New Knowledge Frontiers for Lassa Fever Preparedness and Response in West Africa: Evidence from the Field”. The event brought together over 100 health experts, researchers, policymakers, and frontline workers from across the ECOWAS region to share evidence-based insights and innovations in the fight against Lassa fever.
This initiative, supported by Coalition of Epidemic Preparedness and Innovations (CEPI), Nigeria Health Watch, World Health Organisation, African Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) and other regional partners, seeks to raise awareness of Lassa fever as a priority health threat in West Africa. The series focuses on advancing research, diagnostics, and community-led solutions to improve preparedness and response strategies against this zoonotic disease.
In his opening remarks from, Dr. Melchior Athanase Joël C. AÏSSI, Director General of WAHO, conveyed the warm greetings of His Excellency, Dr. Alieu Omar TOURAY, President of the ECOWAS Commission, and expressed his gratitude to the participants for joining the inaugural session. Dr. AÏSSI highlighted that the Lassa fever webinar is not only a platform for knowledge sharing but a call to action for addressing the ongoing challenges posed by this disease. He underscored the importance of collaboration and evidence-based action in tackling Lassa fever. The webinar, he said, has brought together a diverse group of stakeholders, policymakers, researchers, health professionals, and community representatives, who are working together to share ideas, learn from each other, and co-create solutions to address this public health threat. Dr. AÏSSI expressed his gratitude to key partners, including CEPI and Nigeria Health Watch, whose support has been instrumental in making the webinar series possible. He also thanked the speakers and panelists for their dedication and expertise, which are crucial for the region's efforts to tackle Lassa fever.
Prof. William Ampofo, a leading virologist from the University of Ghana, also shared his thoughts on the importance of addressing Lassa fever amidst ongoing infectious disease challenges across Africa. He pointed out that although Lassa fever is not causing frequent outbreaks, the region remains highly vulnerable due to its endemic nature. Prof. Ampofo stressed the need for continued research, particularly the development of vaccines, and mentioned that ongoing technical trials at the University of Ghana were crucial in advancing understanding and preparedness for the virus. He also highlighted the importance of pursuing new vaccine candidates and stressed that the region must remain vigilant and well-prepared for potential outbreaks of Lassa fever and other zoonotic diseases.
A robust panel discussion addressing key aspects of Lassa fever management, including advancements in vaccine research, innovations in diagnostic tools, and community-based interventions followed the presentations, where participants exchanged experiences and proposed actionable recommendations for
integrating evidence-based practices into national and regional response strategies.
Key highlights included:
- Vaccine Development Progress: Updates on clinical trials and research into multi-target vaccines aimed at addressing the genetic diversity of the Lassa virus.
- Community Engagement: Practical strategies for empowering local communities through education and hygiene practices to reduce transmission.
- Innovative Diagnostics: Deployment of rapid diagnostic tools to enable quicker detection and timely treatment, particularly in rural and underserved areas.
Challenges and Recommendations
Speakers highlighted the challenges of stigma, delayed diagnoses, and inadequate funding as persistent barriers to effective Lassa fever control. They called for coordinated efforts to:
- Expand diagnostic infrastructure in remote areas.
- Support vaccine development and clinical trials.
- Strengthen cross-border surveillance and data sharing.
- Enhance community-led efforts to address the socio-economic determinants of Lassa fever.
A Call to Action
The webinar concluded with a renewed call to prioritize Lassa fever as a critical public health issue. Participants underscored the importance of integrating preparedness and response efforts within broader health system strengthening initiatives.
The event also served as a platform to launch WAHO’s new initiative on Lassa fever preparedness, response, research, and vaccine development aimed at supporting ECOWAS Member States in scaling up laboratory capacity, training healthcare workers, and conducting operational research.
As part of WAHO’s commitment to regional health security, the organization will continue to facilitate knowledge exchange and drive multi-sectoral collaborations. Subsequent sessions in the Lassa Fever Webinar Series will build on the outcomes of this inaugural meeting, to foster innovative solutions and enhance regional readiness against infectious diseases.