Health News Of The Week

COVID-19 Keeps Mutating, But Immunity Holds Strong, Experts Say
Scientists warn that COVID-19 virus, SARS-CoV-2, continues to evolve rapidly, with new mutations helping it evade immune defenses. While the virus is still causing infections, the widespread immunity from vaccinations and prior infections has significantly reduced its severity, making it more of an endemic threat than a pandemic. Experts emphasize the need for regular booster shots to maintain immunity and prevent the virus from gaining an advantage.
npr.org- March 11, 2025

Diphtheria Outbreak at King’s College: Lagos Launches Emergency Vaccination
The Lagos State government has begun emergency vaccinations at King’s College Annex, Victoria Island, following a diphtheria outbreak that claimed the life of a 12-year-old student. Government officials, alongside the WHO, inspected the school’s facilities to assess sanitary conditions and reinforce preventive measures. While 34 close contacts are under observation, concerned parents are urging their children to stay home and demanding a PTA meeting to evaluate the situation.
Vanguard News- March 12, 2025

WHO, Nigerian Government Launch National Health Fellows Program to Strengthen Healthcare Access 
In a bid to improve healthcare at the grass-root level, the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Nigerian government have launched the National Health Fellows Program (NHFP) to deploy health fellows across all 774 local government areas. Over 774 fellows have already been deployed, playing a crucial role in policy implementation, training, and monitoring health programs. The NHFP is expected to significantly boost Nigeria’s healthcare system and serve as a model for youth-led health sector transformation.
WHO- March 13th, 2025

Europe Reports Highest Measles Cases in 25 Years, WHO Warns
The World Health Organization (WHO) and UNICEF report that measles cases in Europe have doubled in a year, reaching 127,350 in 2024—the highest since 1997. The surge is linked to declining vaccination rates, worsened by the COVID-19 pandemic. With vaccination coverage in some countries ranking below the 95%, WHO urges governments to intensify immunization campaigns, strengthen disease surveillance, and address vaccine hesitancy to curb further outbreaks.
Premium Times- March 14th 2025