Health

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

Published

6 months ago

November 15, 2024

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 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.

Health

FG Unveils Zinc Rich Rice to Combat Malnutrition

Published

3 weeks ago

April 30, 2025

Samson Adeyanju

By Ifeoluwa Odunayo

The Federal Government has launched two new rice varieties, FARO 71 and FARO 72, in a bold move to fight malnutrition and micronutrient deficiencies among vulnerable groups, particularly women and children.

Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Abubakar Kyari, unveiled the fortified rice in Abuja, highlighting its potential to improve health outcomes while boosting food security.

Developed in collaboration with HarvestPlus and the National Cereals Research Institute, the rice varieties are enriched with zinc, supplying up to 40 percent of the daily recommended intake.

Aside from their nutritional benefits, FARO 71 and FARO 72 are designed to deliver high yields, resist pests, and withstand drought — qualities expected to appeal to farmers and improve national productivity.

With Nigeria reportedly losing $1.5 billion annually to nutrient deficiencies, the government hopes these fortified staples will play a critical role in reversing the trend and promoting public health through agriculture.

Health

FG Boosts Nursing Enrollment to 115,000 to Bridge Healthcare Gap

Published

3 weeks ago

April 28, 2025

Samson Adeyanju

By Ifeoluwa Odunayo

In a major move to tackle Nigeria’s growing healthcare workforce shortage, the Federal Government has increased the annual enrollment of nursing students from 28,000 to 115,000.

The announcement was made on April 28, 2025, by the Federal Ministry of Education, highlighting the government’s commitment to strengthening the healthcare and education sectors under the Renewed Hope Agenda.

The surge, surpassing the original target of 110,000 students, is the result of collaboration between the Ministries of Education and Health & Social Welfare.

The milestone was achieved thanks to the leadership of Dr. Maruf Olatunji Alausa, Professor Muhammad Ali Pate, and support from industry experts, the Nigerian Council of Nurses and Midwifery, and teaching hospitals.

Health

Battle Against Malaria Gains New Fire

Published

3 weeks ago

April 28, 2025

Samson Adeyanju

By Oso Abidemi

Determined to stamp out malaria, major health organizations stormed the University of Lagos with a sweeping campaign of education, free testing, and drug distribution.

Themed “Malaria Ends with Us: Reinvest, Reimagine, Reignite,” the outreach united Green Life Pharmaceuticals, Green Life Hospital, Seagreen Pharmaceutical, and Clearline HMO in a powerful push to fight the disease that continues to ravage communities across Nigeria.

Hundreds of students and residents turned up for free malaria tests, prevention kits, and vital health education. Organizers stressed the urgent need for community action, with a special focus on empowering young people to drive change.

Peter Nwosu, Executive Director of Green Life Pharmaceuticals, described the campaign as more than a symbolic gesture.

“We are here not just to mark a day but to make a real difference,” he declared, calling for sustained efforts against the deadly scourge.

Speaking for Clearline HMO, Dr. Oghenerukevwe Peretomode warned that climate change is fueling malaria through flooding and rising temperatures.

She called for stronger government support, innovation, and personal responsibility, urging Nigerians to use treated nets and maintain clean surroundings.

Chris Ikeagu, General Manager of Green Life Hospital, said the choice of UNILAG was deliberate.

“Youth are the key to this battle. They will take the message home,” he said, stressing that early detection and treatment remain vital weapons in the fight.

The event stood as a fresh rallying call for Nigerians to take the malaria fight personally, seriously, and urgently.