Health News Of The Week

India Bans Export of Addictive Opioids to Nigeria and Other West African Countries
India has officially banned the production and export of two highly addictive opioids—tapentadol and carisoprodol—following an investigation that exposed their illegal distribution in Nigeria and other West African nations. A BBC Eye report revealed that Mumbai-based Aveo Pharmaceuticals was behind the export of these dangerous drug combinations, which have been fueling substance abuse crises in the region.

In response, Indian authorities raided the company's facility, confiscated its stock, and revoked all manufacturing and export licenses for the drugs. These opioids, which are unapproved for use in most countries due to their high risk of addiction and overdose, have become widely available on West African streets as cheap alternatives to prescription painkillers.

Nigeria, which has over four million opioid abusers, remains the largest consumer of these illicit drugs in the region. The Nigerian government is stepping up efforts to crack down on opioid trafficking, with agencies like NAFDAC leading raids and seizing large quantities of these substances.
Source: https://www.vanguardngr.com/2025/02/india-bans-addictive-opioids-exported-to-nigeria-others/amp/ 

Kogi State Vaccinates 284,750 Girls Against HPV, Calls for Sustained Efforts
Kogi State has successfully vaccinated 284,750 eligible girls against the Human Papillomavirus (HPV), achieving 99% coverage since launching the initiative on May 27, 2024. The Executive Director of the Kogi State Primary Health Care Development Agency (KSPHCDA), Musa Mu’azu, announced this at the 2nd Busayo Emmanuel Agbana Annual Memorial Lecture, held by the College of Health Science, Prince Abubakar Audu University (PAAU), Anyigba, Kogi State on the 24th of February 2025, emphasizing the state’s commitment to making the HPV vaccination routine.

Health officials highlighted advocacy, social mobilization, and training efforts that contributed to the success. Experts, including the PAAU Provost, Simon Akogu and the Vice-Chancellor Marietu Tenuche, stressed the importance of cervical cancer screening, healthcare worker training, and community awareness to sustain progress.
Source: https://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/top-news/776811-cervical-cancer-kogi-state-vaccinates-over-250000-girls-against-hpv.html 

Lassa Fever Kills 30-Year-Old Farmer in Cross River as Government Ramps Up Response Efforts
A 30-year-old farmer from Unincha community in Obubra, Cross River State, has died from Lassa fever, prompting swift action from health authorities. The victim was diagnosed at the Federal University Teaching Hospital in Abakaliki, Ebonyi State, on February 16 and passed away the following day.

In response, the Cross River State government activated its Lassa Fever Emergency Operations Center on February 18 and deployed rapid response teams to contain the outbreak. Measures include contact tracing, community awareness campaigns, decontamination of affected areas, and distribution of medical supplies.

Health Commissioner Dr. Henry Egbe Ayuk urged residents to adopt preventive measures such as proper food storage, maintaining hygiene, and seeking early medical attention. The public has also been warned against self-medication and advised to report suspected cases immediately. The state health ministry continues to monitor the situation to prevent further spread.
Source: https://www.vanguardngr.com/2025/02/lassa-fever-kills-30-year-old-farmer-in-criver-2/amp/ 

NIMR Sounds Alarm on Infectious Disease Resurgence, Calls for Stronger Response
The Nigerian Institute of Medical Research (NIMR) has warned about the increasing threat of infectious diseases in Nigeria, citing the rise of Viral Hemorrhagic Fevers (VHFs) such as Lassa fever, yellow fever, dengue, Zika virus, and Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever.

During a recent media briefing, Professor Rosemary Audu, Director of Research at NIMR, revealed that ongoing transmission of these diseases has been detected in several states. She stressed the need for urgent action, including improved surveillance systems, enhanced diagnostic tools, and increased public awareness.

Dengue fever, in particular, was highlighted as a growing concern due to its increasing prevalence. Meanwhile, NIMR’s Director-General, Professor John Obafunwa, emphasized the institute’s commitment to disease surveillance but acknowledged challenges such as inadequate funding and limited research capacity. He called for stronger financial support from both the government and private sector to boost Nigeria’s preparedness and response to infectious disease outbreaks.
Source: https://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/top-news/776903-nigeria-research-institute-warns-of-recurring-infectious-diseases.html