By Patrick Idowu
As a scorching heatwave grips Abuja, the Hope Everyday Foundation has taken a free medical outreach to Gofe Community in Kuje Area Council to combat the outbreak of meningitis and other heat-related illnesses.
With temperatures soaring to 41 degrees Celsius, far above the seasonal average, health experts have raised concerns over dehydration, heatstroke, and respiratory infections.
During the outreach at ECWA Church Arena, the foundation’s Executive Director, Dr. Nkechi Akinwale, warned of the increased risk of meningitis and stressed the need for early immunization, proper ventilation, and prompt medical attention.
Residents received essential healthcare services, including blood pressure checks, malaria and typhoid tests, free medications, and doctor consultations.
A team of 31 medical professionals, including doctors, nurses, and pharmacists, volunteered for the initiative, attending to 183 participants, including women, children, and persons with disabilities.
Community leaders, including Village Head Bitrus Yakubu and ECWA Pastor Rev. Luka Gata, expressed gratitude and urged the foundation to extend similar interventions in the future.
The Nigerian Meteorological Agency has warned that the extreme heat may persist due to reduced cloud cover and dry winds, heightening the urgency for public health measures.
