Health

JOHESU Strike : UCH Runs Essential Services

By Web News 734

By Fasilat Lawal

Joint Health Workers Union, JOHESU and Assembly of Health Care Professionals, Senior Staff Association of Universities at Teaching Hospitals and Non-Accademic Staff Union, at the University College Hospital, UCH, Ibadan, have left their duty posts in compliance with an indefinite strike declared by the National body.

The indefinite downing of tools, according to the unions, was to press home their demands following   inconsistency in the ongoing negotiations for the adjustment of the CONHESS salary scale for non-physician health cadres, including the implementation of service from 60 years to 65 years in service, among others

At UCH, Radio Nigeria saw JOHESU officials chasing members away from their duty posts, before shutting gates and laboratories.

In an interview,  UCH Branch Chapter  Medical and Health Workers Union, Mr Simeon Ibekwe said the aim of the indefinite strike was informed by the government’s disregard for the welfare of health workers, as the government had refused to accede to their demands.

Mr Ibekwe pointed out that if their demands were not granted, the strike would not be called off.

However, UCH Chief Medical Director Professor Jessie Otegbayo said the hospital was  ensuring that  essential services including accidents, emergency care intensive and children units were not affected by the industrial action and patients on ground were retained while some requested discharge. 

Professor Otegbayo added that UCH had requested more security guards to maintain law and order.

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Health

JOHESU Directs Members to Commence Indefinite Strike

By Web News 803

The Joint Health Sector Unions and the Assembly of Health Care Professional Association have directed their members to embark on an indefinite strike.

The National Vice President of JOHESU, Dr Obinna Ogbonna said this at a press briefing held in Abuja on Thursday.

JOHESU is the umbrella body of health workers’ unions and associations, including the Medical and Health Workers Union of Nigeria, Nigeria Union of Allied Health Professionals, Non-Academic Staff Union of Educational and Associated Institutions, and Senior Staff Association of Universities’ Teaching Hospitals Research Institutes and Associated Institutions.

The leadership of JOHESU had in a letter dated May 9, 2023, issued a 15-day ultimatum to the Federal Government over alleged inconsistencies of the government in the ongoing negotiations to adjust the Consolidated Health Salary Structure for health workers on their platforms.

The 15-day ultimatum commenced on May 10, 2023, and will expire at midnight on Wednesday, May 24, 2023.

Obinna said, “It becomes imperative to inform you that since the Federal Government is yet to meet these demands, our members have been directed by the JOHESU National Executive Council to proceed on an indefinite strike action upon expiration of the ultimatum by midnight of May 25, 2023.”

Punch/Simeon Ugbodovon

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Health

Iodine salt checks thyroid disorder-Dr Afolabi

By Web News 575

By Fasilat Lawal

Iodine salt in daily diet has significant health benefits. 

Consultant General and Endocrine Surgeon, University College Hospital, Ibadan, Dr Adefemi Afolabi made the submission in an interview with Radio Nigeria Ibadan on the occasion to mark this year’s World Thyroid Day. 

He explained that right intake of iodine salt prevents disorder in the organ of the body known as thyroid gland.

Dr Afolabi pointed out that the commonest causes of thyroid disorder in society is iodine deficiency as a result of inadequate iodine in diets resulting in the malfunctioning of the thyroid gland. 

He described iodine as being essential because it enables the thyroid glands to perform the function of producing hormones to the glands.

The Endocrine Surgeon said  thyroid disorder could be hereditary, which accounts for its being found among some newborns.

Dr Afolabi who said thyroid disorder is curable, enjoined people to visit health facilities when any sign of abnormalities is dected in the lower part of the neck.

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Health

Stakeholders Want Amendment of Blood Transfusion Safety Bill

By Web News 921

By Mosope Kehinde

Stakeholders in the medical sector in Oyo State have called for concerted efforts at ensuring that necessary amendments were done on the Blood Transfusion Safety Bill, 2022, before passing it to law.

The stakeholders made the call in Ibadan at a public hearing on the bill, which suggested the establishment of the Blood Transfusion Safety Committee and the creation of at least 7 Blood Recruitment and Screening Centres in each Geo Political Zones at Ibadan, Ibadan II, Oke-Ogun 1, Oke-Ogun 11, Ogbomoso, Oyo and Ibarapa.

Commissioner for health, Dr Bode Oladipo represented by the permanent secretary in the ministry, Dr Olusoji Adeyanju expressed confidence that voluntary blood donotion in the state would be encouraged, with a view to addressing supply deficit.

Also speaking, Southwest Zonal Director, National Blood Service Commission, Dr Oladapo Aworanti stressed the need to include creation of designated centres that would be saddled with the responsibility of proper libeling of blood samples in the bill.

Contributing, Permanent Secretary, Hospital Management Board, Dr Muftau Ayoola suggested that the secretary of the proposed Blood Transfusion Safety Committee should be ceded to the board, for proper management.

Others who submitted their memoranda were of the view that funds for the smooth running of the centres must be made available by relevant authorities at all times.

Earlier, Chairman, Oyo state house of assembly committee on health, Mr Ridwan Saminu said the Blood Transfusion Safety Bill 2022, is seeking to Regulate the Assessment of Blood Donors, Blood Storage, Blood Products, Blood Administration and Ethics of dealing in Blood for Medical use.

“Other Matters Connected Therewith which seeks to establish a Committee which will ensure Blood Transfusion Safety through supervision; registering, issuing directives monitoring, gathering, collating,analyzing and keeping information, records and data and publishing information relating to Blood Transfusion Services and programmes in the State among others functions.” He said

“The Blood Bank Recruitment and screening Centres when established shall screen, certify, stock blood and blood Products obtained through non- remunerated donor while operating on Standard Operating Procedure (SOPs).”

Participants were drawn from the ministry of health, Nigeria Medical Association, Hospital management board, national blood service commission, Red cross among other stakeholders

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Health

Expert Advises Women on Pregnancy Management

By Web News 638

By Fasilat Lawal

Women should ensure they visit appropriate health facilities for proper pregnancy management and childbirth 

Senior Registrar Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University College Hospital ,Ibadan Dr Opeyemi Adedeji gave the advice while speaking with Radio Nigeria in  Ibadan on the occasion to mark this year’s International Day to End  Obstetric Fistula.

Dr Adedeji explained that obstetric fistula occurs when there is an abnormal connection between the female private part and bladder which usually occurs from prolonged labour of childbirth complications.

He noted that this occurs mostly among teenagers with early pregnancy  who visits traditional birth attendants for child birth resulting in their labour not being properly managed. 

Dr Adedeji described obstetric Ffistula as one of the common cause of maternal morality death in the country arising from unskilled birth attendants who are not conversant with  the signs of danger during labour.

He affirmed that obstetric fistula can be treated by specialised health facilities, noting that some women who have the disease without proper treatment get stigmatisatized. 

Speaking on the theme ’20 Years in Progress But not Enough, Act Now to End Fistula by 2030′, Dr Adedeji called on governments to recruit more specialised health personnel and to create more  public awareness to end Obstetric Fistula in the country.

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Health

Oyo Govt Urges Residents to Access Quality Healthcare in PHCs

By Web News 610

By Oluwakayode Banjo

Oyo State Government has urged residents, especially rural dwellers, to access quality and affordable healthcare through functional Primary Healthcare Centres (PHC) facilities in the state.

Commissioner for Health, Dr. Bode Ladipo made the call while launching the maintenance manual for the facilities in Ibadan, on Monday.

Dr. Ladipo said Oyo State Government has put in some resources to facilitate the upgrade of PHCs in the State.

He said the essence of the step was to make sure each political ward has a viable healthcare centre, adding that at about 210 of these PHCs were renovated in Governor Makinde’s first tenure, while other PHCs will be completed to make up the remaining 351 PHCs.

Dr. Ladipo who said Oyo State Government was aware of the manpower shift from this clime to more economically buoyant climes, added that the Government has started looking inward to shore up resources that will ensure it meets the needs of practitioners.

He said there was need to ensure the facilities put together, outlasts the present administration and for this reason, the Oyo State Government has put a small manual together for the maintenance of the new facilities. 

Speaking earlier, Special Adviser on Health and Chairperson Governor’s PHC renovation steering committee, Dr Funmi Salami said the maintenance handbook is vital as a good maintenance culture will extend the life of the infrastructure in Oyo State.

She reiterated Oyo state Government’s commitment to deliver its mandate of quality healthcare to all citizens of Oyo State through the renovation of 351 primary health care centers (one PHC per ward) across the state to category 3 PHCs.

According to her, “a category 3 PHC has about 13 rooms with portable water and electricity”.

She said, “Maintaining the PHCs in a proactive manner is critical to their functionality and longevity. This maintenance manual will assist in ensuring that end users regularly perform preventative maintenance”.

Addressing the shortage of healthcare workers in the country due to brain drain and other factors, she said the committee has a mandate to think outside the box to staff PHCs.

She said decisions have been reached on how to provide staffing the PHCs on the short, medium and long term.

Health

Osun Begins Distribution of Drugs to PHCs

By Web News 588

By Funmi Adekoya

In his quest to fulfil his campaign promise to improve healthy living among Osun people, Osun State Governor, through the State Primary Healthcare Development Board, has commenced the distribution of drugs and medical consumables to the 445 non-focal health centres across the State.

The drugs and medical consumables which are scheduled for distribution to the three Senatorial Districts in the State, are to be accessed, free of charge, from primary healthcare centres across the state.

Speaking on the distribution, the Executive Secretary, State Primary Healthcare Development Board, Dr Samson Fabiyi disclosed that necessary drugs had been provided in primary healthcare centres across the State and that the State Government would not relent in giving necessary support and aid to all government health centres in the state.

Dr Fabiyi noted that grassroots is where health care delivery should be addressed first, hence, the distribution of drugs to PHCs to save a lot of lives in situations of emergency in rural areas.

He explained that the programme was to address the challenge occasioned by the perennial ‘out of stock syndrome’ in the State.

He also said that the procurement of the drugs was in line with the vision of Governor Ademola Adeleke’s rescue mission, aimed at improving health care delivery in the State.

Dr Fabiyi who appreciated Governor Adeleke for the gesture, also assured the government and people of Osun State that the drugs would serve the purpose for which they were procured, adding that the Agency had developed mechanisms to prevent diversion of the drugs.

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Health

UCH Resident Doctors Shun Duty

By Web News 664

By Fasilat Lawal

Residents Doctors at University College Hospital Ibadan, UCH have left their duty post in compliance with the ongoing five-day warning strike declared by the National Association of Residents Doctors, NARD. 

The reason behind the warning strike, according to the doctors, included manpower shortage, non-increment of the Consolidated Medical Salary Salary Structure, poor infrastructure, and nonpayment of the Medical Residency Training fund.

During a visit to the hospital, Radio Nigeria observed that some units of the Hospital such as Maternity, Casualty, and Out Patient, which normally record large turnout, were scanty. 

Only a few consultants were on the ground attending to patients as doctors on call duty were not available.

In an interview, the President of the Association of Residents Doctors UCH, Dr Ogundipe Muyiwa, explained that the warning strike was inevitable following Federal Government’s refusal to call them to a round table over their demands.

Dr Ogundipe said doctors’ Consolidated Workers’ Salary was last reviewed in 2009, pointing out that they worked under poor conditions with few medical personnel, poor facilities, among other challenges.

He called on Federal Government to review its bureaucratic approach to issues raised, recruit more doctors and enhance the welfare of doctors. 

Dr Ogundipe gave an assurance that if Federal Government acceded to NARD’s demands, the country’s health sector witness significant improvement. 

The UCH NARD Chairman, who said that the health of the masses remained paramount to the association, appealed to the Federal Government to respond positively to their demands to put an end to the strike.

Some patients, who spoke with Radio Nigeria, urged governments to urgently resolve the disagreement with NARD to end the disruption of medical services. 

The National Association of Residents Doctors last Wednesday declared a five-day warning strike following the Federal government’s refusal to address their demands. 

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Health

FG Remains Committed to Improved Healthcare Delivery – Osinbajo

By Web News 789

By Fasilat Lawal

The government will continue to address factors militating against healthcare delivery in the country.

The Vice President, Professor Yemi Osinbajo made the affirmation during the inauguration of projects by the Sustainable Development Goals, SDGs at the University College Hospital, UCH, Ibadan.

Professor Osinbajo explained that there were still gaps in the nation’s health delivery system, which he attributed to the quality of care available, equipment, and facilities as well as the disparity between the health budget and expenditure.

Senior Special Assistant to the President on Sustainable Development Goals, (SDGs), Dr. Adejoke Oorelope Adefulire described the project inaugurated at UCH Ibadan as a testament to the Federal Government’s commitment to the health and well-being of Nigerians.

Earlier, the Chief Medical Director, UCH, Professor Jesse Otegbayo in an address of welcome, described the inauguration of the project as a landmark in the over sixty-five years of the medical institution’s existence.

Professor Otegbayo who said the projects represented a significant contribution from the federal government, expressed gratitude to President Muhammadu Buhari and the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Sustainable Development Goals, (SDGs) Dr. Adejoke Oorelope Adefulire.

The UCH CMD, however, solicited the provision of more facilities and equipment from the Federal Government to further enhance the institution’s medical delivery.

Our correspondent reports that there were goodwill messages, from the Oyo State Governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde represented by the Secretary to the State Government, SSG, Mrs Olubamiwo Adeosun, and the Senator representing Oyo Central Senatorial District, Senator Teslim Folarin.

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Health

Osun Resident Doctors Shun Strike as Govt Intervenes

By Web News 1698

By Funmi Adekoya

The National Association of Resident Doctors, NARD, of the Osun State University Teaching Hospital says it will not be joining the ongoing national strike.

This was the outcome of a close-door meeting with Governor Ademola Adeleke as contained in a statement by the Governor’s Spokesperson, Mallam Olawale Rasheed, where the 12 years demands of the doctors were approved by the Governor.

At the meeting attended by the leadership of the union and management of the teaching hospital, Governor Adeleke approved with immediate effect the payment of hazard allowance for clinical and non-clinical workers in the service of the state teaching hospital.

The Governor also approved payment of a percentage of residency training allowance for residency doctors for the same hospital on an annual basis.

Reacting to the presentation by the President of the medical union, Dr. John Ojo, Governor Adeleke further directed that all other operational issues raised by the union should be looked into with immediate effect.

He however charged the medical workers to reciprocate the gesture of the state government by re-dedicating themselves to excellent service delivery.

Elated resident doctors at the meeting jubilated and appreciated the Governor for fulfilling a 12 year old dream of the resident doctors.

It would be recalled that NARD had on 29 April issued a two-week ultimatum to government to meet its demands or face industrial action.

The warning strike commenced at 8 a.m on Wednesday 17 May and end at 8 a.m Monday, 22 May.

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Health

FG Inaugurates Online Health Platform

By Web News 712

As part of measures to boost access to quality healthcare in the country, the Federal Government has presented a healthcare platform tagged “NigComHealth”.

NigComHealth is a telehealth service that provides a platform for Nigerians to book appointments, receive medical advice or recommendation and consult with physicians and other healthcare practitioners from the comfort of their homes, offices schools and localities. Access to these services will not only reduce the burden of physical hospital visits but also enhance the overall quality of healthcare services for citizens.

The health platform was developed by NIGCOMSAT.

Presenting the platform in Abuja, the Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Professor Isa Ali Pantami said the innovation is meant to bridge the healthcare deficit in Nigeria.

He said based on facts; Nigerians spent at least N1.6 billion on foreign health tourism yearly.

Professor Pantami said the country requires at least 370,000 doctors yearly to address the doctor-patient ratio inadequacy, while there are at least 40,000 public and private healthcare facilities but many of them are not affordable and accessible to Nigerians.

The Minister, therefore, said the NigComHealth was a novel idea that would address these challenges.

The Managing Director of the Nigerian Communication Satellite Company, NIGCOMSAT, MallamTukur Lawal said the agency was poised to meet its mandate to Nigerians through innovations and ideas.

FRCN Abuja / Titilayo Kupoliyi

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Health

Health Workers Give FG Strike Alert

By Web News 1113

Joint Health Sector Unions and Assembly of Healthcare Professional Associations have issued a 15-day strike ultimatum over alleged inconsistencies by the federal government in the on-going negotiations to adjust the Consolidated Health Salary Structure for health workers on their platforms.

This was made known on Friday in a letter addressed to the Federal Ministry of Health and signed by the National Secretary, Matthew Ajorotu.

The unions noted that the ministry had shown tendencies to shift from their agreed terms and rules of engagement relating to non-discrimination in the determination of the wages and benefit packages of health workers in Nigeria.

They stated that the “recent communication from the Federal Ministry of Health (FMoH) which attempted to sabotage the laudable report of the Technical Committee on the Adjustment of CONHESS as was done for CONMESS, by claiming its implementation would distort existing CONMESS relativity with CONHESS.”

While highlighting their demands, the unions called on the federal government to consolidate on Health Salary Structure as agreed in terms of settlement of September, 2017, which had lingered since 2014.

They also urged the government to pay peculiar allowance to health workers “under the aegis of JOHESU/AHP” as well as an immediate and unconditional implementation of the Consultant Cadre circular of pharmacists in all federal health Institutions.

Other demands include, “payment of all withheld salaries of our members in Federal Medical Center in Owerri, Jos University Teaching Hospital, Lagos University Teaching Hospital and their withheld April and May 2018 Salaries; speedy adjustment of retirement age from 60 – 65 years and the exclusion of some health workers in the payment of new hazard allowance as well as payment of COVID-19 allowance balance.”

While demanding a negotiation of the peculiar allowance, the unions added that, “the planned 25% review on CONHESS will only widen the existing relativity with CONMESS to our disadvantage while also distorting albeit significantly the supposed edge over general salary scales in Public Service.”

“If the Federal Government does not stick to tenets of due process spelt in our rules of engagement since the commencement of negotiations on the Adjustment of CONHESS as was done for CONMESS and the other lingering demands as highlighted above within the 15 day window, it would be clear that it is the Federal Government that should be held responsible for the fall-outs of a possible strike,” the letter added.

Culled / Titilayo Kupoliyi

Health

International Nurses Day: Association Calls for Improved Welfare

By Web News 544

By Fasilat Lawal

In view of the country’s population growth, It is essential that more nurses be engaged, and their work conditions be improved, hence the need for more of them in the health sector. 

Chairman, of the National Association of Nigeria Nurses and Midwives, UCH unit Mrs. Olufunmilola Faminu stated this on the occasion to mark this year’s International Nurses Day.

Mrs Faminu explained that nurses including other health workers faced numerous challenges including shortage of staff, poor working conditions, and insecurity, which has led to brain drain leading to the available hands being overstretched

Also, the Chairman of, the National Association of Nigeria Nurses and Midwives, UCH, who spoke on the theme “Our Nurses Our Future” called on the government to put strong measures in place to address the health challenges in the country, and also improve the welfare of Nurses.

Speaking with Radio Nigeria some residents of Ibadan expressed the desire for quality healthcare services from nurses as well as dedication in the discharge of their duties.

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Health

WHO Declares Covid-19 No Longer Health Emergency

By Web News 1379

The World Health Organisation said on Friday that the Covid-19 pandemic was no longer considered a public health emergency of international concern.

The Director-General, WHO, Dr Tedros Ghebreyesus, announced this in Geneva, while also lifting the highest alert level that can be imposed in the event of a threat, which has been in place for more than three years.

This came after more than three years of declaring the outbreak to be a Public health emergency of international concern in January 2020, about six weeks before characterizing it as a pandemic.

WHO’s International Health Regulations Emergency Committee discussed the pandemic at its 15th meeting on Covid-19 and decided that the PHEIC declaration should come to an end.

The statement read in part, “The committee’s position has been evolving over the last several months. While acknowledging the remaining uncertainties posed by the potential evolution of SARS-CoV-2, they advised that it is time to transition to long-term management of the Covid-19 pandemic.

“The WHO DG concurs with the advice offered by the committee regarding the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic. He determines that Covid-19 is now an established and ongoing health issue that no longer constitutes a PHEIC.

“The WHO DG considered the advice provided by the committee regarding the proposed temporary recommendations and issued a statement. The WHO Director-General will convene an IHR Review Committee to advise on standing recommendations for the long-term management of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, taking into account the 2023-2025 COVID-19 Strategic Preparedness and Response Plan.”

It noted that during the transition, state parties were advised to continue following the issued temporary recommendations.

It quoted the DG as appreciating the members and the advisors of the committee for their engagement and advice during the last three years.

The global health body said while the global risk assessment remained high, there was evidence of reducing risks to human health driven mainly by high population-level immunity from infection, vaccination, or both; consistent virulence of currently circulating SARS-CoV-2 Omicron sub-lineages compared to previously circulating Omicron sub-lineages; and improved clinical case management.

It added, “These factors have contributed to a significant global decline in the weekly number of Covid-19 related deaths, hospitalisation and admissions to intensive care units since the beginning of the pandemic. While SARS-CoV-2 continues to evolve, the currently circulating variants do not appear to be associated with increased severity.

“WHO provided updates on the status of global vaccination and considerations of implications for the potential termination of a PHEIC. The committee was informed that, globally, 13.3 billion doses of Covid-19 vaccines have been administered.”

It noted that currently, 89 percent of health workers and 82 percent of adults over 60 years had completed the primary series (the initial one or two doses recommended as per the vaccine schedule), although coverage in priority groups varied in different regions.

It added that states would still be able to access vaccines and diagnostics, provided the manufacturers continue production.

It noted that COVAX would also continue to provide funded doses and delivery support throughout 2023 in line with demand.

Punch/Simeon Ugbodovon

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Health

Adequate use of inhaler prevents asthma attacks – Expert

By Web News 1613

By Fasilat Bello

Adequate use of the inhaler and good inhaler technique could prevent Asthmatic triggers in patients.

Consultant Chest Physician, University College Hospital, UCH, Professor Olusola Igẹ made the submission during a senstization programme in commemoration of World Asthma Day at Bodija Market in Ibadan.

Professor Igẹ pointed out that about 10 million people were living with Asthma disease in Nigeria, which is the highest in Africa.

He attributed the high figure to poor management of Asthma as it is not curable.

Professor Ige who noted that an individual could have Asthma without known symptoms explained that the disease could be hereditary, and that noise which could make the heart short of breath, could trigger it and warned people to desist from discrimination.

The Chest Consultant explained that the inhaler was very key for the treatment of Asthma as it works on the windpipe to relax the trigger of the disease compared to its drug which takes a long process in the body. 

Professor Ige pointed out that an inhaler addresses the primary problem of the airway because of inflammation.

Speaking on the theme, “Asthma Care for All”, Professor Ige, called on stakeholders in the health sector to create adequate awareness and give proper care to people with Asthma, while also admonishing Nigerians to live healthy lives.

Deputy Director, Public Health Nursing, UCH, Mrs Grace Adekoya urged Nigerians to be mindful of dusty environment, inhaling perfumes which can trigger an asthma attack. 

Mrs. Adekoya advised people susceptible to asthma to use a nose mask and always carry an inhaler to prevent asthmatic attacks.

A Dietician at UCH, Lilian Oge advised people to study their body mechanisms, abide by what is good for it, and avoid fried foods, coconut oil, and dried food, saying they irritate and result in coughing, narrowing the airways making breathing difficult.

The dietician urged people to take lots of fresh water for clearing the airways in the body and also take vitamin C.

In an interview, an Asthmatic patient, Sunday Igboanlen appealed to governments to subsidize the cost of treatment and medication for Asthma.

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Health

Why We Ban ‘Indomie Special Chicken’ Flavour In Nigeria – NAFDAC

By Web News 1212

The Director-General of the National Agency for Food, Drugs Administration and Control, NAFDAC, Professor Mojisola Adeyeye, has hinted at the reasons behind banning the ‘Indomie Super Chicken’ flavour in Nigeria.

Citing fewer clinical tests, registration and production of the flavour in the country, Adeyeye said the agency has commenced sampling and analysis of other Indomie noodles flavours including their seasonings for the presence of ethylene oxide.

She assured Nigerians of a thorough investigation of the products both at factory and market levels.

In a statement made available signed by the agency on Tuesday and made available to newsmen, Adeyeye claimed that the outcome of the sampling and analysis of the products would be made public.

It partly read, “Indomie instant noodles products and other brands of noodles registered by NAFDAC for sale in the Nigerian market are manufactured in Nigeria and are only granted NAFDAC registration status following a strict regulatory regime covering all aspects of Good Manufacturing Practice.

 “The Management of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control, NAFDAC is aware of the recall of Indomie Instant Noodles ‘Special Chicken Flavour’ by the Ministries of Health in Malaysia and Taiwan on account of the alleged presence of ethylene oxide, a compound associated with an increased risk of cancer.

“NAFDAC, as a responsible and responsive regulator, is taking swift actions to carry out random sampling and analysis of Indomie noodles (including the seasoning) for the presence of ethylene oxide, as well as extending the investigation to other brands of instant noodles offered for sale to Nigerians.

Punch/Titilayo Kupoliyi

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Health

Oyo State Red Cross Society to Reactivate Ambulance Patrol Services

By Web News 650

By Bunmi Agboola

Voluntary service to humanity has been described as a veritable means to strengthen peace and harmony in society.

This was the submission of the Chairman of Red Cross Society, Oyo State Branch, Mr Babalola Famade in an interaction with journalists to kick start activities marking the one hundred and sixty years birthday of the founder of the Red Cross Society Worldwide.

Mr. Famade noted that Red Cross Society was the largest humanitarian network made up of millions of volunteers and professionals working in close proximity with those in need ranging from natural disasters to road accidents.

Earlier, in her welcome address, the chairman of the planning committee Mrs. Torimiro Adebisi said, a week-long program had been prepared to celebrate the founder of the Red Cross, Henry Dunant who was born on 8 May 1828, in Geneva, Switzerland and died on 30 October 1910.

Mrs. Adebisi added that orientation programs would be held for volunteers as well as reactivation of Ambulance Patrol Services across major roads and expressways to scale up the services of the Red Cross in Oyo State.

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Health

Stakeholders are critical to a robust health sector- Florence Ajimobi

By Web News 654

By Fasilat Lawal

Stakeholders whose commitment has kept the Health Sector afloat should be duly appreciated. 

 Former First Lady of Oyo State, Mrs Florence Ajimobi made the submission at the Dove Health Care Awards 2023 held at University College Hospital Ibadan, UCH. 

Represented by Dr Olamiji  Ajanaku, Mrs Ajimobi affirmed that the philanthropy and dedication of such individuals had immensely reduced the challenges faced in the health sector.

Mrs Ajimobi,  lauded Dove Health Care for recognizing the meritorious service of awardees in the healthcare space, noting that the gesture of rolling out the drums to appreciate them would deepen their commitment to the Health Sector.  

Oyo State Commissioner of Health, Dr Taiwo Ladipo, said one of  Governor Seyi Makinde’s Cardinal agendas was health.

Dr Ladipo, represented by the Permanent Secretary Oyo State Ministry of Health, Dr Olusoji Adeyanju, solicited collaboration to improve the health capacity of the state and the country at large.

Earlier in a remark, the Deputy Director Programmes, Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria, Ibadan Zonal Station, Reverend Niyi Dahunsi, described the Dove Health Care award as a departure from the norm of celebrating things that do not add significant value to society. 

Organizer of Dove Health Care Award 2023, Mrs Bola Otegbayo -Ajibola, explained that the event was to further motivate stakeholders whose commitment had complemented Federal government efforts in the health sector, and called for enhanced welfare for medical personnel.

The high point of the events was the presentation of awards to deserving stakeholders including the Chief Medical Director of UCH, Professor Jessie Otegbayo.

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Health

NAFDAC Warns Nigerians on Dangerous Cough Syrup

By Web News 659

The National Agency for Food and Drugs Administration and Contro, NAFDAC, has alerted Nigerians about a suspected substandard cough syrup called ‘Naturcold.’

The cough syrup which is said to be manufactured by Fraken Group is believed to have caused the deaths of six children under the age of five at a health facility in the health district of Fundong, in the North-West region of Cameroon.

According to the North-West Regional of Cameroon delegate for Public Health, the children showed a decrease in kidney function after consuming the suspected substandard cough syrup.

NAFDAC, in a press statement on its website said the product is not authorised for marketing in Cameroon and was purchased from unauthorised sources.

“Although the product is not in NAFDAC database, importers, distributors, retailers, and consumers are advised to exercise caution and vigilance within the supply chain to avoid the importation, distribution, sale and use of the substandard (contaminated) syrups. All medical products must be obtained from authorised/licensed suppliers. The products’ authenticity and physical condition should be carefully checked.

“NAFDAC implores members of the public to desist from purchasing medicinal products from unauthorised sources such as roadside vendors and street hawkers as fake drugs are mostly smuggled into the country from neighbouring countries and distributed through such inappropriate channels.

“Anyone in possession of the above-mentioned product is advised to discontinue sale or use and submit stock to the nearest NAFDAC office. If you, or someone you know, have used these products, or suffered any adverse reaction/event after use, you are advised to seek immediate medical advice from a qualified healthcare professional,” the agency noted.

Culled / Titilayo Kupoliyi

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Health

My goal is to ensure a better life for Osun residents-Gov Adeleke

By Web News 573

By Funmi Adekoya

Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke says his administration will not relent in ensuring a better life for the people of the state.

Governor Adeleke stated the inauguration of an ultra-modern medical centre in Ifewara, Atakumosa West Local Government Area of Osun, donated by the Jennifer Etuh Foundation.

While appreciating the foundation for building the health facility in the state, the Governor said his government takes priority in the welfare of the people of the state.

He said since he became Governor, he started the “Imole Free Surgical and Medical Outreach” where 25,000 residents of the state have benefited from various medical and surgical treatments.

The Governor called on well-meaning Nigerians to emulate the act of helping the less privileged in the society in order to make life easier for others.

In his remark, the General Overseer of Redeemed Christian Church, Pastor Enoch Adeboye thanked Mr. Etuh and the foundation for citing the medical centre in his home town.

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Health

Fight against Malaria Upped in Oyo

By Web News 735

By Mosope Kehinde 

Oyo State Government says it has intensified efforts to deliver zero malaria by investing in innovative ways

to implement strategies against the menace. 

Commissioner of Health, Dr Bode Ladipo disclosed this while speaking in Ibadan on the occasion of this year’s World Malaria Day 

Dr Oladipo represented by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Health, Dr Adeyanju Olusoji, said efforts of the state was yielding positive results in the management, control and elimination of malaria.

He said there was a reduction in the percentage of uncomplicated malaria cases from 74% in 2020 to 57% in the year 2022 as well as a reduction in fever cases from 75% to 56%. 

The commissioner said the giant strides in the fight against malaria needed to be stepped up for Oyo State and Nigeria in general to deliver a zero-malaria country.

“In furtherance to this, we have provided a State Reference Laboratory in collaboration with IPS for malaria quality control to improve the capacity of health workers in malaria diagnosis and treatment. 

“This laboratory will serve the Southwest states. Furthermore, the Seasonal Malaria Chenio-prevention was Implemented in the state for children 3-59 months across 6 LGAs in the Oke Ogun area with high malaria burden. The impact felt was a reduction in malaria cases from 73% to 52% in the Children.”

In a goodwill message, Oyo State Coordinator, Breakthrough Action Nigeria, Mrs Oluwatoyin Afachung and other implementing partners commended the state government for providing an enabling environment for them to strive, promising more robust people’s engagement, especially at the grassroots.

The highlight of the event was the symbolic handover of malaria prevention, diagnosis and treatment to thirty private facilities in the state

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Health

World Malaria Day: Ending the Reign of Mosquitoes

By Web News 615

Malaria is a life-threatening disease spread to humans by some types of mosquitoes. It is mostly found in tropical countries, and it is preventable and curable.  

The mild symptoms are fever, chills and headache, while severe symptoms include fatigue, confusion, seizures, and difficulty breathing.

Infants, children under 5 years, pregnant women, travellers and people with HIV or AIDS are at higher risk of severe infection.  

Malaria is one of the endemic diseases that are common in Nigeria and other African countries.

According to world malaria report, there were 247 million cases of malaria in 2021 compared to 245 million cases in 2020.

The estimated number of malaria deaths stood at 619, 000 in 2021 compared to 625, 000 in 2020.  

World Malaria Day is commemorated every 25th of April by the World Health Organization, WHO.

The annual event is a global effort, to raise awareness of Malaria and funds for the treatment and prevention of the disease.  

The day is also to highlight the need for better political intervention in malaria control and prevention as well as the continuing great achievements in the fight against Malaria. 

This year’s theme, “Time to deliver zero malaria: invest, innovate, implement”, underscores the urgent global desire and determination to use diverse means to bring this century-long battle to a conclusive end.  

The fight against malaria has been a long-drawn battle, with diverse results.

At the dawn of this century, the United Nations Millennium Development Goals pushed forward a renewed effort towards the fight against malaria.  

This effort culminated in several campaigns aimed at fighting the disease as well as renewed political will and determination.

In November 2018, the W.H.O. and Roll Back Malaria Partnership to End Malaria launched the high burden to high-impact country-led approach as a mechanism to support the 11 highest-burden countries to get back on track to achieve the 2025 milestones through galvanizing political will, mobilizing resources and community responses.  

Since 2015, the baseline date for WHO’s global malaria strategy, 24 countries have registered increases in malaria deaths. 

In the eleven countries that carry the highest burden of malaria worldwide, cases increased from 150 million in 2015 to 163 million cases in 2020, and malaria deaths increased from 390, 000 to 444, 600 in the same period.   

In general, mosquitoes have a short lifespan of about four weeks and breed in blocked gutters, refuse heaps, blocked drains, stagnant water, pools, and barks of water-bearing plants such as plantains, bananas, coconuts and surrounding bushes.  

Malaria Prevention

Thus, it is safe to describe malaria as a typical filth-borne disease and that water is to mosquito breeding what air is to life.

In recognition of this simple fact, all efforts made towards fighting malaria in Nigeria in the past usually began with the quest for the control of the existence of mosquitoes by ensuring that the conditions that led to their multiplication did not exist at all. 

Despite these efforts, malaria has continued to constitute a global health challenge with Nigeria having the world’s highest malaria burden.

To get back on track, WHO and its partners recognized the need to ensure better and more equitable access to all health services by strengthening primary health care and stepping up both domestic and international investments.  

It is therefore pertinent to posit that the most effective way of containing the multiplying cases of malaria in Nigeria in particular and in other areas of the world, must begin with the control of the factors that lead to the incidence of malaria – the mosquitoes.  

And the best way to do this is to put in place policies to ensure that the physical environment is kept clean always through the removal of all overgrown weeds, destruction and removal of all objects capable of holding water to deny mosquitoes stagnant water they need to lay their eggs and breed, sleeping under mosquito treated nets among others.   

This will ensure that Nigerians and the entire nation remain free from the scourge that is called malaria fever.

FRCN/Adetutu Adetule

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Health

Lassa Fever: Cases Spread to 26 States as Death Toll Rises

By Web News 428

The death toll of Lassa fever in Nigeria so far this year has risen to 151 from the previous 148, according to the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention, NCDC.

In its 14th-week Lassa fever situation report, the NCDC said there had been a total of 869 confirmed cases recorded from 26 states and 101 local government areas from January 1 to April 9, 2023.

A total of 4,555 suspected cases were recorded during the period under review.

With the current death toll, the public health institution noted that the case-fatality ratio of the outbreak stood at 17.4 per cent.

Of the 869 cases confirmed this year, the predominant age group affected was 21-30 years and the male-to-female ratio for the confirmed cases was 10:9.

According to the World Health Organization, Lassa fever is an acute viral hemorrhagic illness caused by the Lassa virus, a member of the arenavirus family of viruses. Humans usually become infected with the Lassa virus through exposure to food or household items contaminated with the urine or faeces of infected Mastomys rats. The disease is endemic in the rodent population in parts of West Africa.

Lassa fever is known to be endemic in Benin, Ghana, Guinea, Liberia, Mali, Sierra Leone, Togo, and Nigeria, but probably exists in other West African countries as well.

“Seventy-one per cent of all confirmed Lassa fever cases were reported from these three states (Ondo, Edo, and Bauchi) while 29 per cent were reported from three states with confirmed Lassa fever cases.

“Of the 71 per cent confirmed cases, Ondo reported 32 per cent, Edo 28 per cent, and Bauchi 11 per cent.

“The number of suspected cases increased compared to that reported for the same period in 2022,” the report read in part.

Punch/Adebukola Aluko

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Health

Over 1000 Oral Cancer Cases Recorded In Nigeria Records

By Web News 860

Nigeria records over one thousand cases of oral cancer each year with not less than seven hundred mortality.

Minister of Health, Dr Osagie Ehanire stated during training for health workers on oral cancer in Abuja.

Dr Ehanire who was represented by the Head, Dentistry Division in the Ministry, Dr. Gloria Uzoigwe, said many Nigerians were unaware of the deadly effects of the mouth disease, hence the need for more enlightenment on it.

The Minister said over 700 Nigerians die yearly from the ailment, and that the ministry would soon launch a policy to tackle the rising cases of oral cancer, facial deformity and cleft in the country.

The Executive Director Cleft and facial deformity foundation, Dr. Seidu Bello, said that early detection was key to tackling the disease, stressed the importance of using Artificial intelligence to solve critical health issues.

University College Hospital, University of Ibadan, Professor Bukola Adeyemi, highlighted some causes of oral cancer to include smoking, alcohol and oral sex.

The Secretary General, Nigerian Dental Association Dr. Ukachi Nnawuihe, the Association was working to partner with the National Health Insurance Authority to incorporate oral treatment in the health insurance.

Dr Nnawuihe urged Nigerians who notice persistent mouth ulcers for two weeks to seek immediate medical attention.

Emmanuel Kutara /Adetutu Adetule

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Health

NYSC takes Healthcare Services to Rural Area

By Web News 594

By Kayode Animasaun

The Acting Governor of Ondo State, Lucky Ayedatiwa has promised that the state government will strengthen the partnership with the National Youth Service Corps, NYSC, towards ensuring that many rural dwellers benefit from the scheme’s qualitative healthcare services.

Ayedatiwa made this remark while flagging off the first quarter Health Initiative for Rural Dwellers (HIRD) programme held at Ipogun community in Ifedore Local Government.

The Acting Governor, represented by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Youth and Sports Development, Mrs Foluke Tunde-Daramola commended the NYSC for reaching out beyond her primary mandate of uniting the country to provide free and qualitative healthcare services to rural communities.

In an address, the State Coordinator, Mrs Victoria Nnenna Ani said that NYSC came up with the idea of the Health Initiative for Rural Dwellers (HIRD) programme as a means to reach out to the rural dwellers who under normal circumstances were unable to access medical attention as a result of neglect and remoteness of their locations.

The State Coordinator disclosed that the programme aimed at mobilising volunteer corps medical personnel to rural settings to complement government at all levels to give free and qualitative healthcare services.

Also speaking, the Adapogun Oripogun of Ipogunland, Oba Raphael Ojo urged the community dwellers to take advantage of free medical services provided by the NYSC to improve their health conditions.

Some corps medical personnel gave health talks on critical health conditions such as blood pressure, diabetes, physical well-being, and balanced diet as well as discourse on open defecation before a medical investigation and administration of drugs.

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