Health

UPDATED: Fire Guts UCH Intensive Care Unit

By Web News 792

By Jeffrey Ahonmisi / Olawale Asake

A fire outbreak has occurred at the University College Hospital, Ibadan, Oyo State, affecting Intensive Care Unit, ICU and a Theatre.

The incident which happened on Saturday morning has since been put out by the men of the fire services who swiftly swung into action after being called upon by the Authorities of the College Hospital.

Speaking on the fire incident, Chief Medical Director, UCH Ibadan, Professor Jesse Otegbayo said, patients who were on admission at the affected parts of the incident have been safely transferred to another place in continuation of their treatment.

Professor Otegbayo added that no casualty was recorded, stressing that no patient was trapped also in the fire incident, as against the reports in some quarters.

The Chief Medical Director assured the relatives of patients in the hospital that the Hospital remained committed to providing quality healthcare service delivery to the public.

Our Correspondent who visited the hospital reports that the affected parts of the building had been cordoned off.

Health

Adeleke Flags Off 2nd Phase of Surgical Outreach in Ilesa

By Web News 545

By Adenitan Akinola 

In his determination to ensure residents of Osun State enjoy a good health benefits, Governor Ademola Adeleke has flagged off the 2nd Phase of Free Imole Medical Surgical Outreach.

It would be recalled that the first phase of Imole Medical Outreach was held between February and April 2023 with about twenty two thousand (22,000) citizens benefitting from the surgeries, eye and medical care.

Speaking at the ceremony, which was held in Ilesa, Governor Adeleke restated the commitment of his administration to the well-being of the people of the state.

The Governor said: “We believe in the philosophy that it takes a healthy nation to build a wealthy nation. We will therefore continue to invest the State resources to improve the health status of our people.”

“We have come again, as a government that understands the need of its people to reach out to our citizens in order to alleviate their medical challenges.”

“We have again made provisions to take care of various medical cases. The Government has provided adequate medications for this exercise and shall provide reading glasses for those that may require them.”

According to the Governor, the current outreach program would take place in six centers with two (2) from each Senatorial district.

“We believe this will in no small measure reduce the current economic burden our people have had to bear. I take this opportunity to direct the Commissioner for Health to work out a plan to make this outreach a regular feature of this administration just as he urged Ministry  Health to create a holistic agenda in this respect.” 

He said the program should be mainstreamed across state’s health institutions, pointing out that implementation of the above directive would make the outreach more sustainable, more inclusive and expand the scope of benefit. 

‘I urge the Commissioner, the Special Advisers, the Boards and the management of the state health institutions to integrate the private sector in the expanded program. This will expand funding capacity and eventually deepen the delivery capacity of stakeholders.

“I like to thank all the members of the Committee and health workers on this team under the leadership of Professor Peter Babatunde Olaitan for their sacrifices in this call to duty.”

Governpr Adeleke thanked all our party faithful for their presence and seek the continuous support of all Osun citizens.

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Health

Respite for UCH Patients Following NARD’s Strike Suspension

By Web News 537

By Lilian Ibomor

Following the suspension of strike by resident doctors, normal activities have resumed at the University College Hospital, UCH, Ibadan.

Our correspondent reports that patients were being attended to.

Two relatives of patients Mr Adebayo Akinade and Mrs Bolu Adeshina noted that if the present Government can keep attending to issues urgently, there would be no need for strike actions in the country.

The relatives said it would be a great thing if mass exodus of doctors can be stopped to avoid losing good hands in the country. 

The president of NARD, Emeka Orji, had on earlier said the association decided to suspend the strike due to significant moves by the federal government to address its demands.

NARD had on July 26 this year declared a “total and indefinite strike action” following failure of Federal Government to meet their demands which included the immediate payment of the 2023 MRTF, the immediate release of the circular on one-for-one replacement, and the payment of skipping arrears.

However, the Association eventually called off the industrial action on 11 August, 2023.

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Health

UCH Receives Atila Biosystems for Cervical Cancer Diagnosis

By Web News 729

By Mosope Kehinde

A New technology called Atila Biosystems has been delivered to the Centre For Infectious Disease Institute, University College Hospital, UCH, Ibadan for diagnosis of Cervical Cancer especially through screening and testing of Human Papillomavirus, HPV.

The equipment which was the first HPV testing equipment in Nigeria was received as a grant from Northwestern University, Chicago.

Speaking during the delivery of the equipment, Former Minister of Health, Professor Isaac Adewole, expressed confidence that the new HPV testing technology known as Atila Biosystems would help Nigeria to key into the international agenda of vaccinating women and girls against Cervical Cancer which is expected to take off next month.

The Former Minister said since the World Health Organization, WHO has mandated HPV test as a prerequisite for screening, Nigeria must prioritize the HPV testing.

Professor Adewole hinted that the first phase of the vaccination is expected to take off in sixteen states and second phase in fourteen states.

In an interview, the Director, Centre For Global Oncology, Northwestern University, Chicago, Dr Lifang Hou explained that the best way to prevent Cervical Cancer was through early testing of Human Papillomavirus, HPV which usually comes with HIV.

Dr Lifang Hou said the Northwestern University would sustain the twenty five years old partnership with University of Ibadan to identify individuals that have HPV in fection.

The Principal investigator in the projects, Dr Oludare Morhason-Bello said the new Atila Biosystems equipment for HPV testing, is user friendly with low level involvement of laboratory services technology which will produce test results within an hour.

He said the overall benefits of the technology was the reduction of cervical cancer, urging women to present themselves for screening early at all times.

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Health

Over 500 Akanran Residents Benefit from ACPN Medical Outreach

By Web News 706

By Nafiu Busari

Over five hundred residents of Akanran and environs in Ibadan Oyo State have benefitted from free medical outreach organised by Association of Community Pharmacists of Nigeria, ACPN, Oyo state branch.

The outreach was initiated in order to help people know their health status and refer those critically to hospital for proper medical care.

Speaking with Radio Nigeria, some of the beneficiaries of the Free Health Outreach, Alfa Qodr Adesina, Mr. Sunday Oyelakin and Miss Deborah Amasori commended the organizer for choosing the area for the programme which they said was good for their health status.

The free medical outreach covered administration of medication, screening and consultation, HIV testing and counseling, mass deworming among other.

In a speech,The Chairman, Association of Community Pharmacists of Nigeria, ACPN, Oyo state branch, Mr. Adebayo Gbadamosi advised the federal government to provide good welfare packages, basic infrastructure and youth empowerment programmes to reduce exodus of health professionals seeking greener pastures abroad.

Mr. Gbadamosi, who noted that health professionals, especially Pharmacists are leaving Nigeria in droves, stressed the need for government to address the trend to improve Pharmacists retainership which is less than 40%.

The Free Health Outreach also witnessed the Investiture of a foremost philanthropist, Chief Dotun Sanusi as the Grand Patron of the association at Ilaji Resorts, Ibadan.

The ACPN chairman stated that the selection of Chief Sanusi as the Grand Patron of the association was due to his investment in human development services and grassroots touch, which are similar to the aspirations of Pharmacists.

The National President, ACPN, Prince Adewale Oladigbolu while highlighting functions of Pharmacists to include handling public health, drug quality control, diagnosis, research and sourcing raw materials for drug production, appealed to Chief Sanusi to assist association make headway in political appointments in government ministries, departments and agencies to have input in public health policy.

Speaking after his Investiture as the Grand Patron of the Association of Community Pharmacists, ACPN, Oyo state branch, Chief Dotun Sanusi remarked that he was delighted to accept the honour because the association is focused on grassroots which is always dear to him.

Chief Sanusi promised to champion the course of ensuring adequate political inclusion of Pharmacists at state and federal government level.

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Health

We are ready to partner on quality healthcare, Egbedun Assures NMA

By Web News 507

By Mojisola Oladele

The Speaker of the Osun State House of Assembly, Prince Adewale Egbedun has stressed the importance of a healthy population to support the economic growth of any society.

Prince Egbedun stated this while playing host to members of the Nigeria Medical Association, NMA at the Assembly complex in Osogbo, the state’s capital. 

He lauded the leadership of Osun NMA for not joining the strike action embarked upon across the country and  commitment towards improving healthcare delivery in the State.

The Speaker maintained that  Osun 8th Assembly would not relent at supporting the NMA to enable residents to enjoy quality healthcare services. 

In a remark, the Chairman of NMA in Osun State, Doctor Adetoye Adedapo explained that thier visit was part of the activities lined up for the ongoing 2023 Osun Annual General Meeting and Scientific Conference.

Doctor Adedapo commended the State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke for his regular support towards doctors in the state, which according to him was one of the reasons why Osun NMA did not join the ongoing nationwide strike.

Other members of the team included; Doctor Adeniyi Fasanu, Doctor Adeyemi Amuda, Doctor Fayowole Nana, Doctor Akinjide, Doctor Atinuke Anjorin amongst other medical practitioners in the State.

In his words, he said “Your noble profession is doing well for the people of the State in terms of quality health delivery, most especially for not joining the nationwide strike which is in appreciation of the gesture of Sen. Ademola Jackson Nurudeen Adeleke led administration” Rt. Hon. Egbedun

” I appreciates the leadership of the 8th Assembly for honouring our request to be part of their annual programme for this year and also sought the support of the lawmakers for effective health delivery to all and sundry in the state and to cushion the adverse effect of the “Japa Syndrome” Doctor Adedapo

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Health

NARD Suspends Strike, to Table Demand before NEC

By Web News 467

The nationwide protest of the Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) set to commence on Wednesday has been called off after closed door meeting with the Senate.

Addressing the media shortly after the meeting, the National President of the Association, Dr Emeka Innocent Orji said it was concluded that the Association should be at the National Executive Council meeting (NEC),to table its demand.

Dr Orji explained that with the intervention of the President of the Senate, Godswil Akpabio, the planned national protest has been cancelled while decisions on the ongoing strike would be taken after the NEC meeting.

According to him, Senator Akpabio gave an assurance that as soon as a Minister of Health was appointed; the Senate would work with the ministry to expeditiously address all grievances.

Demands of NARD

The resident doctors are demanding the immediate payment of the 2023 MRTF, release of the circular on one-for-one replacement, and the payment of skipping arrears.

Others are the upward review of CONMESS in line with full salary restoration to the 2014 value of CONMESS, the payment of the arrears of consequential adjustment of minimum to the omitted doctors, and the reversal of the downgrading of the membership certificate by MDCN.

Nancy Anikaezea

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Health

NMA Down tools over Colleague’s Death

By Web News 598

The Nigerian Medical Association, NMA, Lagos State chapter, has directed all the doctors working in the three government hospitals on the Lagos Island to begin an indefinite strike over the death of its colleague, Dr Vwaere Diaso.

The NMA also declared a five-day mourning period in the state and asked doctors in the other government-owned hospitals to scale down activities as a mark of respect for the dead colleague.

The hospitals to embark on the indefinite strike are the General Hospital, Odan, Lagos; Lagos Island Maternity Hospital, Lagos, and the Massey Street Children’s Hospital, Lagos.

The association said Diaso died on Tuesday at the General Hospital, Odan, Lagos, after she was trapped in the elevator for more than 40 minutes before she was rescued, and there was no blood available to resuscitate her.

The NMA made this known in a press statement signed by its state Chairman, Dr Benjamin Olowojebutu, and Secretary, Ismail Ajibowo, on Wednesday.

“The NMA Lagos State received with rude shock the death of one of our members, Dr Vwaere Diaso, a medical house officer, whose death occurred as a result of injuries sustained when the elevator she was in crashed. This is heartbreaking, heart-wrenching, and quite unfortunate. We commiserate with her immediate family, her colleagues on the Island, the Medical Guild, and all body of doctors in Lagos State. The information we got was that she was trapped in the elevator for more than 40 minutes before she was rescued.

“We were also reliably informed that there was no blood available for resuscitation, and this has become a recurring issue as a result of the review made by the government on the previous policy on blood donation.

“To us, this was an avoidable death and it’s unfortunate that it was allowed to happen. We are pained and we are mourning. We are well aware that this same elevator has been a source of problem for many years during which several complaints have been made to all relevant agencies with no respite, the statement read in part.

The association, however, demanded an immediate and unbiased investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident.

“We declare a five-day statewide mourning period; we demand an immediate, unbiased investigation into the circumstances surrounding this unfortunate incident; all those found culpable in this matter, especially the General Manager of the Lagos State Infrastructure Management Agency, Ms Adenike Adekambi, are all brought to justice.

“We direct all our doctors in the three government hospitals on the Island (GH Lagos, LIMH, and MSCH) to commence indefinite strike action until the investigations are completed and justice served; we immediately direct our doctors in all the other government hospitals to scale down activities as a mark of respect for our dead colleague. Only emergency services should be rendered for the next five days.

“The government should as a matter of urgency commence the complete overhaul of the house officers’ quarters on the island; all other infrastructures in all our government hospitals that need repairs should be urgently attended to. The blood transfusion system in Lagos State needs immediate revamping for improved services.

“As a result of this sad incident, the State Officers Committee of the Nigerian Medical Association, Lagos State, has decided that the upcoming Annual General Meeting will be a low-key event as a mark of respect to our colleague. We appeal to our colleagues to remain calm as NMA Lagos State leadership is on top of the situation and will leave no stone unturned in ensuring that justice is not just served but seen to have been served,” the statement noted.

Punch / Titilayo Kupoliyi

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Health

Ekiti Gov’s Wife Advocates Breastfeeding Facilities in Workplace

By Web News 423

By Busuyi Ogidiolu

Stakeholders in Public and Private Sectors need to make adequate breastfeeding facilities available in all workplaces to make them friendly to nursing mothers.

This is to ensure that women are able to use the facilities like creche to breastfeed for as long as they wish.

Wife of Ekiti State Governor, Dr Olayemi Oyebanji stated this in Ado Ekiti at the flag-off of 2023 world breastfeeding week.

Dr Oyebanji explained that medical experts have shown that breastfeeding is capable of protecting children by significantly reducing the risk of malnutrition and diseases especially in the first year of life.

“Findings have shown that investing in breastfeeding will prevent 13% of child deaths and morbidity, if 90% of mothers exclusively breastfeed their infants for the first months of life.

“Stakeholders, known as warm chain actors should therefore involve in ensuring that breastfeeding practices are supported, protected and promoted including the Government, health sector workers, private sectors, NGOs, Civil Society Organizations, entrepreneurs and communities” She said.

The first Lady noted that the programme, which was an annual and a week-long event, celebrated globally in the month of August highlighted the importance of promoting breastfeeding globally, nationally, at state and at the community level.

The Governor’s wife added that that government has demonstrated  support in protecting and promoting breastfeeding by enacting an health policy of paid six months maternity leave and two weeks paternity leave for employees. 

In a goodwill message, the Commissioner for Health and Human Services Dr Oyebanji Filani told fathers of newborns to always provide necessary assistance to their wives while breastfeeding during the two weeks pertnernity leave instead of going to relaxation centres.

“Father’s role in supporting their wives financially and morally cannot be overemphasized as a conducive environment help better breastfeeding” Filani said.

Also a representative of World Health Organization, Dr Isaac Adedayo emphasized the need for stakeholders to support and raise awareness on why mothers should be actively engage in breastfeeding to improve immunity of the newborns.

In another contribution, the Chairperson, Association of women Doctors, Dr Akinsoto Esther said breastfeeding was economical, as it would also prevent diarrhea and other diseases which were parts of leading causes of childhood mortality.

Speaking on this year’s theme which is “Let’s make Breastfeeding and Work, Work” the chairman Ekiti State food and nutrition committee, Mr Olusesan Alabi expressed the believe that six-month exclusive breastfeeding could offer many benefits to the infant as well as the mothers.

“Breast milk contains important nutrients, antibodies and enzymes that help to strengthen the babies immune system and protect them from infections and illnesses. He added.

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Health

CMDs, Health Workers Sanctioned for Negligence of Duty

By Web News 413

The Kano State Hospitals Management Board has removed the Chief Medical Officers, CMDs, of three healthcare facilities in the state where health workers shunned night duty on July 30.

The affected hospitals are Imam Wali General Hospital; Abubakar Imam Urology Centre; and Nuhu Bamalli Maternity Hospital.

The Public Relations Officer of the hospital’s management board, Samira Sulaiman, said in a statement on Tuesday that the removal of the CMDs and the suspension of the health workers were approved by the Executive Secretary, Dr Mansur Nagoda.

According to the statement, the health workers neglected their duties by absenting themselves from night duty, leaving patients in the hands of students.

Nagoda warned that the board would not condone negligence, lateness, or absenteeism from duty by any medical personnel, adding that anyone found wanting would face sanctions by the civil service rules and regulations.

Nagoda called on other hospitals to buckle down, as all facilities would be monitored closely to revive the health sector of the state to a standard level.

Punch / Titilayo Kupoliyi

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Health

Experts Call for More Collaborative Efforts at Curbing SGBV

By Web News 487

By Funmi Adekoya

To end Sexual and Gender Based Violence, SGBV, as well as Child Early and Forced Marriage in Nigeria, government and other stakeholders must collaborate.

This was the observation of Experts on Sexual and Gender Based Violence, Child Early and Forced Marriage.

Sexual and Gender-Based Violence is any harmful act that is perpetrated against person’s will and that is based on socially ascribed differences between male and female, this include rape, domestic violence, sexual exploitation, trafficking in persons and harmful traditional practices.

According to data from the Nigerian National Population Commission, Gender Based Violence, as experienced by the Nigerian women throughout their lifetime from either their present husband, is reported as 19% for demonstrative or emotional violence, 14% for physical violence, and 5% for sexual abuse.

Ending Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) is a complex and multifaceted task that requires collective efforts from individuals, communities, governments, and organizations.

According to the Coordinator of a non-governmental Organisation, Care fronting Nigeria, Dr. Maji Peterx government at all levels should ensure implementation of policies against Sexual and Gender Based Violence.

He identified fostering international cooperation to combat cross-border Sexual and Gender Based Violence, human trafficking, and other forms of violence that impact vulnerable populations.

Dr. Peterx also called for regularly evaluating the effectiveness of SGBV prevention and response initiatives and make necessary adjustments based on feedback and data.

Also speaking, Program Manager, International Federation of Women Lawyers, FIDA Nigeria, Mr. Fikih Obaro highlighted some key steps to end Sexual and Gender Based Violence, and Child Early and Forced Marriage.

In his own contribution, Programme Coordinator, Child and Youth Protection Foundation, Mr. Olatosimi Kolawole advised Civil Society Organizations to collaborate with government in the implementation and monitoring of policies on sexual and Gender Based violence.

Mr. Kolawole also advocated responsible reporting of SGBV cases by the media, avoiding sensationalism and victim-blaming narratives as well as 

using media platforms to raise awareness and promote positive messages about respect, consent, and equality.

Remember, ending SGBV is an ongoing process that requires each person’s actions, no matter how small, which can contribute to a safer and more equitable world.

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Health

WHO Votes 1,800 Diphtheria Vaccine for Nigeria

By Web News 432

The World Health Organisation, WHO, says plans are underway to deliver 1,800 vials of diphtheria antitoxin to Nigeria on August 2.

The WHO country representative, Dr Walter Mulombo, made this known at a joint press conference held in Abuja on diphtheria outbreak response organised by the National Primary Health Care Development Agency.

Mulombo said Nigeria will also receive erythromycin on or before two weeks, pending the government authorisation as the health commodities are essential for saving lives and reducing complications in affected patients.

Diphtheria antitoxin is a medication made up of antibodies used in the treatment of diphtheria. Erythromycin is a macrolide antibiotic that is used to treat various bacterial infections.

“These health commodities are essential for saving lives and reducing the sequelae in the affected patients, thus need to be prepositioned in Nigeria and ready to be deployed to the states in need,” Mulombo said.

Diphtheria is a serious bacterial infection caused by the Corynebacterium species that affects the nose, throat, and sometimes, the skin of an individual.

As of July 27, Nigeria had 836 diphtheria cases and 83 deaths from Cross River, Kano, Katsina, Kaduna, Lagos, Osun, Yobe, and the Federal Capital Territory.

From May 2022 to July 2023, an estimated 2,455 suspected cases have been reported in 26 states in the country.

Vanguard/Titilayo Kupoliyi

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Health

Kano Begins Contact Tracing as Diphtheria Spreads

By Web News 382

The Kano State Government says it had activated contact tracing has the diphtheria outbreak in the state spread to 31 out of the 44 local government areas of the state.

The state epidemiologist, Dr. Abdullahi Karaunmata, who disclosed this in a chat with newsmen, said over 100 patients were on hospital admission, while about 2,000 patients who were treated and had recovered had been discharged.

The resurgence of diphtheria, according to him, may be linked to the aftermath of the COVID-19  pandemic, which resulted in a lockdown and disruption of routine immunisation of children.

Karaunmata said, “Recently, the NCDC  released a list or an update outlining the number of states affected, with the total number of confirmed cases, including the mortality among the children. The report has categorised  Kano among the states with the highest number of diphtheria patients.

“Currently, we have more than 100 cases on admission. We have treated and discharged over 2,000.

“The diphtheria has been reported in 31 out of the 44 LGAs in the state.

“Through the epidemiology unit, we have now established contact tracing teams across the high-burden LGAs. The team is actively searching for the children, with symptoms of diphtheria. With this development we have focused our searchlight on all the nooks and crannies of the state, searching for these patients.”

Punch / Titilayo Kupoliyi

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Health

Communities Laud Govt. for Treated Mosquito Nets

By Web News 388

By Adenitan Akinola 

Residents of Ilesa East, Ilesa West and Obokun Local Government areas who benefited from the distribution of Treated Mosquito Nets have expressed joy that the net will reduce the problem of malaria fever in their communities.

The residents of the three local governments benefited from the treated Nets which was freely given to each household across by the Federal Governments and donour partners, including the Society for Family Health and the Catholic Relief Services under the Global grant Fund support for malaria between July 6th and July 17th, 2023.

One of the beneficiaries in Owena in Oriade Local Government, Mrs Beatrice Adesuyi said she had been using the net after spreading for 24 hours as directed.

Also speaking with Radio Nigeria, another resident, of Ido in Ilesa East Local Government, who identified herself as Iya Aduragbemi appreciated the donours for the gesture, saying she was spared money spent on buying malaria drug almost every two months.

In her own remark, a trader in Oke Omiru area of Ilesa West, Mrs Julianah Oluwayomi explained that before the net she used to buy insecticide every two weeks, and sometimes resorted to burning of orange pills as mosquito repellant.

However, Mrs Yemisi Bamigbose, who also received the treated net, appealed to the donours to make more available as one was not enough for any household that had more than two children, since one net could only cover a bed.

Radio Nigeria correspondent, who monitored the distribution, spoke with some medical workers.

One of them, Dr Femi Aina of the UniOsun Teaching Hospital remarked that the distribution would go a long way in relieving the people of constant visits to hospitals.

“Malaria is the commonest health challenge around here. Sometimes, the number of patients could overwhelm medical workers, particularly at government facilities. I am confident that given the huge number of people given these nets; if they can use it judiciously, it would drastically reduce the problem of malaria”.

The 2023 ITN ended on the 17th of this month.

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Oyo Govt. Set to Review Public Health Law

By Web News 539

 By Oluwakayode Banjo

The Oyo state government, on Friday, inaugurated a 20-man committee that will review its public health law, to meet current realities and solve health challenges in the state.

The committee, drawn from relevant ministries, agencies, law enforcement agencies, health institutions, civil society organizations amongst others, is expected to converge next week for the task ahead.

The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Health, Dr. Olusoji Adeyanju, in a chat with journalists, shortly after the inauguration at the Conference Hall of the Ministry, said the move was based on the need to continually preserve and promote community health.

Dr. Adeyanju explained that the law after review will play a significant role in curtailing the outbreak of emerging and re-emerging diseases.

He noted that the job before the committee requires collective efforts, urging them to come up with workable and applicable laws that will stand the test of time.

Adeyanju said: “The task ahead of the committee is to ensure the law shows the current reality on ground in the health sector and public health issues that are of public health importance”.

“The people of Oyo state will benefit from it and their health will be sustained and promoted, I believe the committee will do justice to that”, he said.  

Also speaking, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Justice and Solicitor-General of Oyo State, Mrs. Evelyn Akintunde maintained that the document, which would be reviewed according to the extant laws of the State, would help improve the health status and well-being of residents of the state.

While stressing the importance of the review, Mrs. Akintunde explained that the Oyo State Government identified several lacunae in the law and set up a committee which will come up with a draft containing proposals.

She added that the review of the state’s public health law is long overdue, as the law has not been reviewed since 1978, adding that the committee will ensure the draft conforms with national health practices and addresses public health challenges.

“We commend the ministry of health and other relevant MDAs who would join in this review, and we will ensure the draft conforms with national practices that will address public health challenges”, she said.

The Oyo state Commissioner of Police, CP Adebola Hamzat represented at the event by Mr. Patrick Okafor, lauded the state for its pace setting activities.

He revealed that having existing workable laws in place would make the enforcement easier.

Hamzat pledged the support of the Nigerian police during the process of reviewing the law and after the enactment.

The event had in attendance the Permanent Secretary, Hospitals Management Board, Dr. Mufutau Ayoola; the Executive Secretary, Oyo SACA, Dr. Lanre Abass amongst othe

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 He said, “You

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Health

Experts Brainstorm on Hypertension Control in Africa

By Web News 789

By Fasilat Lawal

Death occasioned by hypertension is avoidable if people undertake regular check of their blood pressure at home before proceeding to hospital.

This was the submission of health sector stakeholders at a two day conference on Novel Strategies for Accelerating Hypertension Control in Africa Organized by Centre of Genomics and Precision Medicine and African Research Universities Alliance, University of Ibadan Centre of Excellence in Non -Communicable Diseases held at international Conference Centre University of Ibadan

In a remark, a Cardiologist at Lagos Teaching Hospital, who is also the Vice President, World Heart Federation , Professor Chinyere  Mbakwem explained that there was need to leverage on innovation technology to improve healthcare through the use of devices such as smartphones to remind patients to take drugs and send their blood pressure to health personnel without visiting hospitals.

Professor Mbakwem who noted that safety from cardiovascular disease is achievable, enjoined people to achieve it by controlling Hypertension.

Similarly, a professor of Medicine at the University of Ilorin and Secretary General Of Hypertension Society , Professor Kolawole Wahab, who said the use of internet in the country was high, advised Nigerians to make use of innovation to monitor blood pressure to reduce Cardiovascular diseases.

In a presentation, a neurologist from the Federal Teaching Hospital, Ado Ekiti, Dr Paul Olowoyo maintained that hypertension control should not be limited to only health workers.

Dr Olowoyo explained that measures such as the use of biometric patients, provision of free drugs for the indigents would significantly help in the drive for proper management and control of hypertension.

Vice Chancellor, University of Ibadan, Professor Kayode Adebowale represented by Dean Faculty of Arts, Professor Alabi Oyeshile who said Hypertension was a concern to all sundry, and should not be ignored  urged government to address the hike in prices of food and other items affecting the well being of people.

In an address, Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Health Mr Olufunso Adebiyi represented by Dr Abiodun Adeoye said the ministry had instituted several strategic interventions to improve the early detection and effective management of hypertension.

In a remark, the Permanent Secretary , Oyo State Minisry Of Health Dr Olusoji Adeyanju ,who called for public and enlightenment campaign to address Hypertension said one of Governor Seyi Makinde Cardinal Agenda is to provide quality health to the people.

African Regional Director Hypertension League, Professor Mayowa Owolabi  said Hypertension remained one of the risks factor of stroke in African and the continents, noting that the essence of the conference was  to draw the attention of African and world leaders to the problems of hypertension.

Professor Owolabi expressed optimism that the stakeholders would come up with recommendations to accelerate the detection, treatment, how to control and reduce hypertension on the continent.

There were good- will messages from stakeholders from African countries including Ghana Health Minister, Kwaku Agyeman-Manu .

 The two day conference had the theme “African Control of Hypertension Through Innovation Epidemiology and Vibrant Ecosystem Achieve”.

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FG Increases Hazard Allowance for NAFDAC, NCDC, Others’ Workers

By Web News 591

The Federal Government has approved the upward review of hazard allowance for non-hospital-based health professionals in the country.

The government made this known in a circular dated July 26, 2023, and signed by the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the National Salaries, Incomes, and Wages Commission, Ekpo Nta.

The circular was titled, “Review of hazard allowance for non-hospital-based agencies on the Consolidated Medical Salary Structure and the Consolidated Health Salary Structure.”

The circular partly read, “Further to our circular No. SWC/S/04/S.218/II/405 dated December 22, 2021, the Federal Government has approved the upward review of hazard allowance applicable to non-hospital-based health professionals in the federal public service.”

The letter shows that the hazard allowance for health professionals on the Consolidated Health Salary Structure from grade level one to five was reviewed upward from N5,000 to N10,000.

Also, health professionals on CONHESS from grade level six to 15 will henceforth get N18,000 instead of N10,000.

Similarly, the allowance for health workers from grade level one to 10 on the Consolidated Medical Salary Structure was reviewed upward from N10,000 to N18,000.

The commission noted that the approval took effect on June 1, 2023.

According to reports the non-hospital-based agencies are the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention, the National Agency for the Control of AIDS, the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control, the Nigerian Institute of Medical Research, the National Health Insurance Authority, The National Institute for Pharmaceutical Research and Development, and the National Primary Health Care Development Agency, among others.

Punch/Adebukola Aluko

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Health

Hepatitis Day: Health Practitioner Canvasses Proper Hygiene

By Web News 398

By Lanre Omotoso

Maintaining all forms of personal, food and environmental hygiene is essential to prevent liver infection.

This was a submission of a public Nurse, Mr Joshua Olowofila in an exclusive interview with Radio Nigeria reporter in Ado Ekiti to commemorate World Hepatitis Day.

Mr. Olowofila who identified hepatitis as inflammation of the liver, said to guard against the disease, people must desist from excessive intake of alcohol, avoid unprotected sex, not sharing sharp objects, and ensuring  that they receive properly screened blood.

While noting that only blood test could determine hepatitis patient, the Nurse identified symptoms of damaged liver to include dark urine, stomach ache, jaundice, fever, loss of appetite, fatigue and joint pains.

He emphasized that some carriers of hepatitis may not show any symptoms because of their strong immune system, but may easily infect people with low immunity.

Mr. Olowofila explained that the liver disease affect over twenty million Nigerians, adding that eight out of one-hundred people were infected with either Hepatitis A, B, C, D, or E.

Following the adoption of a resolution during the 63rd World Health Assembly in 2010, July 28 was declared World Hepatitis Day to keep  liver that silently performs over 500 vital functions every single day alive, and this year’s theme is ” One life, one liver”.

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Health

Govt. making your welfare top-priority, Owolade Tells UniOsun Workers

By Web News 528

By Funmi Adekoya

The board Chairman, University of Osun, UniOsun, Teaching Hospital, Honourable Niyi Owolade has assured the staff of the hospital of Governors readiness in making their welfare top priority.

Honourable Owolade gave the assurance during a meeting with management of Honourable Niyi Owolade Teaching Hospital after he assumes office immediately after the inauguration ceremony.

The Chairman who was welcomed by the Chief Medical Director, Professor Babatunde Olaitan and administrative members of the hospitals expressed their enthusiasm to welcome him.

He charged the workers to be diligent in the discharge of their duties, and always work together as a team to move the institution forward.

Honourable Owolade urged the health workers to cooperate with the current administration, saying that the Governor has a lot of developmental plans for the state.

While welcoming the board Chairman, the Chief Medical Director, Uniosun Teaching Hospital, Professor Olaitan said meeting the new Chairman who had head some political position is a plus to the hospital.

Professor Olaitan stated that he believed that the desired development will be achieved to move the hospital forward.

He pledged to work hand in hand with the new Chairman in steering the affairs of the hospital.

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Health

Ripening Fruits with Calcium Carbide Causes Cancer- NAFDAC

By Web News 568

By Fasilat Lawal

National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control NAFDAC has called on journalists to sensitize people on the dangers of ripening fruits with calcium carbide and buying drugs from unregistered sources.

NAFDAC Director General, Professor Mojisola Adeyeye stated this at a sensitization workshop for journalists in the Southwest zone held at House of Chiefs Hall State Secretarial, Agodi Ibadan, Oyo State.

Professor Adeyeye, who was represented by Director Chemical and Evaluation Research, Dr Leonard Omokapariola, said ripening of fruits such as bananas, plantain, guava, orange, grape, or any fruits with calcium carbides is dangerous to health as it could cause cancer heart failure kidney disease and liver failure.

”Fruits artificially ripened with calcium carbide may be ripe on the skin, the but inside remains unripe. whereas the stem is dark”

Professor Adeyeye also pointed out that drug hawking has been a serious challenge to the healthcare delivery system in the country, noting that most of the drugs sold by illiterate and semi-literate drug hawkers are counterfeit, substandard, or expired.

She said drugs were sensitive life-saving commodities that should not be sold on the streets, motor parks, or open markets.

She added that stiff penalties and prosecution awaited drug hawkers arrested by NAFDAC.

The NAFDAC boss called on the Media to play a frontline role in efforts to sensitize Nigerians on the dangers of consuming fruits ripened with chemicals and activities of unlicensed drug hawkers.

Director Public Affairs of the agency, Dr. Abubakar Jimoh, who called on relevant stakeholders to collaborate with NAFDAC to achieve its mandate of safeguarding the health of Nigerians, enjoined people not to patronize items that could endanger their lives.

Similarly, A Director, of Food Safety and Applied Nutrition, Mrs. Edward Evans in her presentation entitled “Food Fraud “, explained that food fraud occurs when agrochemicals are applied to food consumption for economic gains.

Earlier, in an address of welcome, NAFDAC Director Southwest Zone, Mrs. Roseline Ajayi, represented by the Oyo State Coordinator, Mr. Matthew Adeoye, said the agency was working assiduously to reduce the threat of adulterated and substandard drugs and sharp practices in food production process posed to the country.

Some journalists present at the event expressed willingness to partner NAFDAC in the drive to ensure drug and food safety.

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Health

Patients Groan amidst UCH Resident Doctors’ Strike

By Web News 632

By Abisola Oluremi

Relatives of patients on admission at the University College Hospital, UCH ,Ibadan have appealed to the authority and other stakeholders to urgently address the industrial action embarked upon by the National Association of Resident Doctors, NARD, UCH branch.

 The people made the appeal after the hospital ejected patients on admission due to the three weeks warning strike by the association.

 One of them Mr kazeem Ayilara lamented that his mother was advised to seek medical care elsewhere due to the strike.

Speaking on the development , the President, National Association of Resident Doctors, UCH branch, Dr Abiodun Ogundipe  explained that the strike was necessary following the failure of the hospital management to meet their demands.

 He said part of the demands include payment of salaries of over two hundred and fifty doctors that were recruited in May this year.

 Doctor Ogundipe added that the strike would continue at the expiration of the three weeks warning.

Health

Govt. Seals 5 Private Health Care Facilities 

By Web News 529

By Oluwakayode Banjo

The Oyo State Government has sealed five private health facilities in Ibadan, as part of measures towards protecting the health and well-being of residents. 

This is contained in a statement by the Director, Press and Public Relations, Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism, Mr. Rotimi Babalola, made available to newsmen on Thursday. 

The healthcare facilities were sealed for non-compliance with regulatory standards.

The facilities were also found guilty of employing unqualified and unlicensed doctors, commonly referred to as quack doctors.

Speaking during an inspection recently at Olodo and Moniya axis of Ibadan, the Director for Secondary health care and training, Dr. Wale Falana stated that the action became necessary after an extensive monitoring and evaluation of hospital facilities was carried out within the state. 

“The inspection revealed alarming evidence of malpractice, misdiagnoses, and inappropriate treatments being administered to unsuspected patients,” he said.

According to him, The five healthcare facilities sealed were found to be lacking in terms of equipment, personnel, and compliance with standard medical regulations.’

‘Also, some hospitals were staffed with unqualified personnel who were practicing medicine without the required qualifications and license.’

 Dr. Falana further expressed deep concern and warned hospitals not to compromise on the quality of healthcare offered to patients, stressing that the facilities will remain closed until they meet the requirements and standards set by the regulatory bodies.

“This administration underscores its commitment to ensuring that health care services in the Oyo State adhere to the highest standards of quality and professionalism” 

“The government of the day, distinguished health as one of the cardinal programs, consequently, His Excellency, Engr. Seyi  Makinde takes the health of the people as essential, which is the reason behind the omitting free health mission held quarterly  throughout the state.” 

“We will not tolerate any compromise in medical standards that could put lives at risk. Our action in closing these hospitals demonstrates our commitment to maintaining quality healthcare delivery within our state.” 

Dr Falana added further that the state government has urged citizens to be more cautious when seeking medical attention and reminded them to verify the qualifications and licenses of healthcare providers they visit for treatment, encouraging citizens to report any suspected cases of quack doctors or substandard medical practices to the Ministry of Health. 

“This will enable the government to take swift action and ensure that the healthcare system in Oyo State remains trustworthy, reliable, and patient-centric.

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Health

UNICEF Commends Nigeria’s Progress in Routine Immunization

By Web News 476

United Nations Children’s Fund, UNICEF, says Nigeria has made huge progress in routine immunisation coverage.

The UN body rated Nigeria high in its National Immunisation Coverage survey.

UNICEF Chief, Kano Field office, Rahama Farah stated this at a two-day media dialogue organised by the global body in collaboration with the National Orientation Agency, NOA.

Mr Farah however maintained that despite the progress, gaps still exist as over 600,000 children in three states in the northwest; Kano, Katsina and Jigawa have not been vaccinated against childhood killer diseases.

“This is closer to about 40% of the total unimmunised children in Nigeria. Over 300,000 of those children are in Kano State, representing 50% of the three states under the UNICEF Kano Office.

“This situation is unacceptable and should be reversed urgently,” Farah said.

According to him, UNICEF is extremely concerned about the high number of children not immunised in those states.

Mr. Farah maintained that despite the efficacy of vaccines and their availability, immunisation still remains low and therefore appealed to the media to increase sensitisation about the issue.

“At UNICEF, we daily monitor the media reporting, and we see that the content on child rights issues, and stories on children and women represent a sizable content published by the robust Nigerian media.

“Let me emphasisze this, your role in advancing and promoting public health services and promoting children’s rights in Nigeria is very critical”

He pointed out that, myths, disinformation, misinformation, and rumours, have contributed a great deal to poor immunisation uptake, exposing children to high risk, and death that can be avoidable when they don’t get immunized.

The chief of field office therefore urged media practitioners across the country, to create the demand for immunisation and to raise awareness of the importance of Immunisation, by providing accurate information to caregivers, families, and communities.

Mr Farah called on the government to Increase strategic interventions to address the persistent gap in human resources and recruit additional skilled critical cadres of health workers including vaccinators, Community Health Influencers.

FRCN Abuja/Adetutu Adetule

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Health

FG Issues Red Alert on Anthrax Outbreak

By Web News 383

The Federal Government says the risk assessment conducted by the human health sector showed that the likelihood of an outbreak of anthrax disease in the country is high.

The FG also said that the potential impact of the disease on humans is high.

These were made known on Monday night in a joint press statement signed by the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development’s Chief Veterinary Officer of Nigeria, Dr. Columba Vakuru, and the Director General of NCDC, Dr Ifedayo Adetifa.

The government, however, noted that it has activated the incident management system at level two with an incident manager appointed for effective coordination of the response.

Earlier, FMARD confirmed one case of Anthrax disease in a mixed livestock farm in Niger State.

This is the first animal case to be reported in Nigeria since the beginning of the West Africa outbreak in Ghana in June 2023.

FMARD said on July 13, 2023, the sudden deaths of livestock in this farm with eight mortality was reported and the animals who died were observed to have been bleeding from external orifices without blood clotting.

Punch / Titilayo Kupoliyi

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Health

Oyo Govt. Debunks Rumours of Cholera Outbreak

By Web News 487

By Oluwakayode Banjo

Oyo State Government has debunked rumours of a reported outbreak of Cholera in some parts of the state.

Affirming that the state has no record of the disease in a statement on Friday, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Health, Dr. Olusoji Adeyanju, said a medical team had been put on alert to prevent unforeseen circumstances.

The statement reads: “Surveillance and notification officers in the State and Local Governments have been put on alert to institute preventive measures and sensitization of residents in markets and other places with a view to responding to any outbreak of such disease in the State”.

“This disease is suspected to be highly contagious. It is an infection that may be transmitted from person to person through various channels, most especially where the source of drinking water and foods are polluted or contaminated”.

“Our people at the Ministry are currently on field sensitizing the the masses on how to prevent cholera”.

Dr. Adeyanju implored the people of the state to improve on their personal hygiene and abide by the disease preventive measures.

“Our people are advised not to drink water from doubtful sources and avoid eating food prepared in non – hygienic environment”.

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