Health News Of The Week

WHO Lists HIV and Malaria Among Top Priorities for Urgent New Vaccines
The World Health Organization has identified 17 deadly pathogens as top priorities for new vaccines, aiming to protect communities hardest hit by diseases like HIV, malaria, and tuberculosis. This groundbreaking list also focuses on emerging threats like Group A streptococcus and Klebsiella pneumoniae, which are becoming more resistant to current treatments. By shifting vaccine development toward saving lives rather than profits, WHO’s new plan could help reduce medical costs and prevent millions of deaths. This global effort supports WHO’s Immunization Agenda 2030, aiming for fair access to life-saving vaccines for all
6th November, 2024 : Punch Newspaper

New Fertility Technology Brings Hope to Women with PCOS
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) affects many women’s fertility, especially in younger women dealing with hormonal imbalances that disrupt regular ovulation. New advances in Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) are helping women with PCOS by improving the quality and preservation of egg cells, or oocytes, which are crucial for fertility. While women with PCOS often produce a high number of eggs, issues like hormonal imbalances can affect the release and quality of these eggs, making family planning harder. With options like egg freezing and lifestyle changes—such as regular exercise, stress reduction, and certain supplements—ART offers hopeful solutions for women aiming to preserve or improve their fertility.
6th November, 2024: Independent Newspaper

World Bank’s $50M Boost for Nigeria’s Nutrition Crisis
The World Bank has approved $50 million to tackle Nigeria's critical nutrition challenges under the Accelerating Nutrition Results in Nigeria (ANRiN) Project 2.0, aimed at improving health in vulnerable communities. Announced by the World Bank’s Country Director Ndiame Diop during a meeting with Nigeria’s Vice President Kashim Shettima, this funding addresses malnutrition through community-driven solutions. Vice President Shettima also unveiled Nigeria’s N-774 Initiative, designed to bring nutrition programs to all 774 local government areas for sustainable impact. The initiative focuses on integrating nutrition goals across education, agriculture, and healthcare sectors to combat malnutrition. With strong political support and international partnerships, Nigeria aims for swift, lasting improvements in community health.
6th November, 2024: Nairametrics

PSN Calls for Stricter Rules on Veterinary Drug Sales
At the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria's (PSN) 97th annual conference, President Prof. Cyril Usifoh emphasized the need for stricter regulation of facilities selling veterinary drugs to align with Good Pharmacy Practice standards. Usifoh highlighted the PSN's advocacy successes, including the appointment of consultant pharmacists in federal health institutions and progress in legislative efforts like the Fake Drug Act Amendment. He also acknowledged the PSN’s role in securing nine months’ salary payments for pharmacy workers, marking a significant milestone for the sector. Additionally, ongoing collaborations aim to enhance local drug manufacturing and curb illegal drug markets. These initiatives reflect PSN's dedication to advancing Nigeria's pharmaceutical sector and safeguarding public health.
6th November, 2024: Independent Newspaper

Lagos, NEMSAS Partner To Combat Maternal Mortality Through Rural Emergency Services
The Ministry of Health has teamed up with NEMSAS to tackle maternal mortality and improve emergency healthcare services for underserved areas in Lagos State. Under the Rural Emergency Services and Maternal Transportation (RESMAT) programme, this World Bank-funded initiative will provide critical care to rural communities, reducing the risks to maternal and infant health. The programme introduces a community-based transport model, which includes tricycles and boat ambulances to ensure timely access to medical help. Key stakeholders, including Dr. Prosper Ahworegba and Dr. Kemi Ogunyemi, are committed to expanding healthcare access and improving emergency response systems. With Lagos as a pilot state, the RESMAT programme aims to benefit 1.7 million pregnant women by 2025.
6TH November, 2024: Independent Newspaper