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Global Measles Cases Jump 20% in 2023, WHO, CDC Warn

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Measles cases globally increased by 20 per cent to over 10.3 million cases in 2023, compared to nine million cases recorded in 2022.

The data was released in a joint publication by the World Health Organisation (WHO), and the United States Centres for Disease Control (CDC), on Thursday.

The publication is the “2024 WHO-CDC Measles Report and the State of Measles Vaccination in Lower-income Countries.”

The report showed deaths from measles dropped to 107,500 from 116,800, an eight per cent decline compared to 2022 figures.

According to the report, 57 countries experienced outbreaks in 2023, revealing gaps in vaccine coverage.

“African countries have, however, exhibited resilience and increased vaccine coverage by two percentage points to 70 per cent amid a rising birth cohort and competing public health priorities,” the report revealed.

Measles is a highly contagious, serious airborne disease caused by a virus that can lead to severe complications and death. It requires at least 95 per cent vaccine coverage with two doses of measles or rubella vaccine to prevent outbreaks.

“The continuing trend of measles outbreaks in low-income countries as well as high-and middle-income countries is a stark reminder of the ongoing need to address gaps in coverage everywhere,” it said.

It noted that the measles-containing vaccine is safe, effective and inexpensive, adding that highly effective measles vaccination campaigns are needed to supplement routine immunisation.

Children are required to receive two doses of the vaccine to ensure immunity: the first routine dose usually at nine months and the second dose at 15 to 18 months of age.

Nigeria is among 24 countries whose applications for catch-up and follow-up campaigns were approved by Gavi’s Independent Review Committee (IRC), of experts, aiming to reach over 100 million children in 2024.

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Health

Niger State Vaccinates Over 444,000 Girls Against HPV

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By Gabriella Ogbu

Niger State has successfully vaccinated 444,658 girls against the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) as part of a health campaign aimed at reducing the risk of cervical cancer.

Although the state set a target to immunize over 500,000 girls, particularly those aged 9 to 14, the campaign has made significant strides in protecting the health of young females across the region.

Daniel Jiya, the Director of Food and Drugs and Project Manager of the State Emergency Routine Immunization Coordination Centre (SERICC), confirmed that Niger State is now ranked third in Nigeria’s nationwide HPV vaccination initiative.

This is a major achievement in the fight against cervical cancer, which claims approximately 8,000 lives annually in Nigeria.

The HPV vaccine, which is safe and effective, has proven to be a crucial tool in preventing cervical cancer.

The state’s efforts are part of a broader national push to reduce these deaths and protect the health of young girls across the country.

“We are proud of the progress we have made in Niger State,” Jiya stated. “Our goal is to provide every eligible girl with the protection they need against HPV and, in turn, reduce the risk of cervical cancer for future generations.”

The vaccination campaign is seen as a key component of Niger State’s public health strategy, and officials have emphasized the importance of continuing this effort to ensure the safety and well-being of girls in the region.

The state’s ongoing commitment to the cause is expected to yield long-term benefits for public health, as it joins the fight to eliminate cervical cancer in Nigeria.

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Health

AEPB Champions Campaign Against Open Defecation in FCT

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By Njoku Chijioke

The Abuja Environmental Protection Board (AEPB), under the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA), has intensified its campaign against open defecation in the suburbs of the territory.

The campaign, organized to mark the 2024 World Toilet Day, was held with the theme, “Toilets are a Place for Peace.”

Mr. Braimah, spokesperson for AEPB, highlighted that the initiative is aimed at promoting good hygiene practices among rural communities across the FCT.

Through the Department of Environmental Health and Safety, AEPB has been conducting awareness programs in rural areas, educating residents about the health risks associated with open defecation.

Mr. Braimah emphasized the importance of every household having access to a functional toilet and adopting proper hygiene practices for the health and well-being of families and communities.

World Toilet Day, observed annually on November 19, aims to celebrate the importance of toilets while raising awareness about the lack of safe sanitation facilities for many people around the world.

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Health

Cholera epidemic hits Sokoto

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By Gabriella Ogbu

Cholera outbreak across three Local Government Areas (LGAs) in Sokoto State has claimed at least 25 lives, with 1,160 individuals affected statewide.

The alarming statistics were disclosed on Monday by the State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Asabe Balarabe, during a press briefing.

Dr. Balarabe confirmed that 15 active cases, identified in Sokoto North, Silame, and Kware LGAs, have been laboratory-tested and are currently under management.

“Out of the 1,160 people affected, 25 have succumbed to the disease,” she said, emphasizing ongoing efforts to prevent further spread.

In response to the outbreak, the state government has begun distributing free medical supplies to 18 LGAs. Rescue teams are working closely with authorities to contain the spread and provide timely treatment to affected communities.

Dr. Balarabe commended the proactive response of women, especially pregnant women, who have sought medical care at local health facilities.

However, she acknowledged persistent challenges, including inadequate infrastructure, power outages, and a lack of basic amenities like water in public health institutions.

She expressed optimism about reforms under Governor Ahmad Aliyu’s leadership, noting that the governor recently approved the recruitment of 864 nurses and midwives to address staff shortages.

Plans are underway to hire additional personnel to replace retired or deceased workers.

Reports from the affected areas reveal that communities in Bazza and Gidadawa, within Sokoto Metropolis, are experiencing severe cholera and diarrhea cases.

Some victims have died, while others are receiving treatment at Primary Health Centres in Bazza and Kofar Rini clinics, both in Waziri B Ward of Sokoto North LGA.

Dr. Balarabe reiterated the government’s commitment to revitalizing the healthcare sector and ensuring prompt intervention to combat the outbreak.

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