Health News Of The Week

Rising Toll: Lassa Fever Claims 138 Lives in Nigeria Amid Nearly 5,000 Suspected Cases
Nigeria has recorded 4,881 suspected Lassa fever cases in 2025, with 717 confirmed and 138 deaths, prompting experts to criticize the country’s inadequate response to the disease. The latest report by the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) shows a 19.2% case fatality rate from 18% in 2024 with Ondo, Bauchi, and Taraba states accounting for 71% of all confirmed cases. Despite a decline in new cases, health professionals warn that only about 10% of suspected cases are confirmed due to weak diagnostic systems. Experts stress that rural communities, where the disease is most prevalent remain underserved in education and resources. Lassa fever, which spreads through infected rodent excreta and human contact, remains endemic in Nigeria, especially during the dry season. Despite NCDC activating its Incident Management System, experts believe long-term control requires more than coordination—it demands sustained investment and inclusive public health strategies.
15th May, 2025: All Africa

Health Risk Alert: Popular Nigerian Spices May Weaken or Worsen Prescription Drugs
Medicine experts has warned that three common kitchen spices in Nigeria ; cinnamon, turmeric, and ginger can affect how certain prescription drugs works . These spices, often consumed for their health benefits, may speed up or slow down  drug metabolism, making some medications less effective or even harmful especially blood pressure drugs, antidepressants, diabetes medications, blood thinners, and chemotherapy agents.

Experts emphasize that small amounts used in cooking are generally safe, but high-dose supplements may pose risks. Anyone on regular medications should consult a healthcare provider before taking herbal supplements.
17th May, 2025: Vangaurd

Nigerian Scientists Slash Maternal Deaths with Groundbreaking MamaBase Model
A team of Nigerian scientists  and public health experts at the Maternal and Reproductive Health (MRH) Collective has developed MamaBase, a data-driven model aimed at reducing maternal deaths among poor and vulnerable women. Piloted in Lagos in 2023, the initiative uses a framework called M.I.L.E.S. (Mapping, Identifying, Linking, Educating, Supporting) to connect pregnant women to essential care. So far, over 7,800 women have been enrolled, with 99.9% surviving childbirth—far above the national average. The maternal mortality rate among participants dropped to 123 per 100,000 live births, compared to Nigeria’s 1,047.With more than 80% of participants delivering in health facilities and 60% completing the recommended antenatal visits, the model is proving transformative. MRH is now expanding the initiative across Lagos and Kaduna, aiming to reach 10,000 more women by 2026.
16th May, 2025: The Nation

PCN Shuts 489 Drug Outlets in Akwa Ibom Over Quackery and Illegal Practices
The Pharmacy Council of Nigeria (PCN) has shut down 489 medicine outlets across 14 LGAs in Akwa Ibom State over unethical practices, including quackery and drug counterfeiting. During a four-day enforcement exercise, 725 premises were inspected, with 122 pharmacies and 367 patent medicine shops sealed for regulatory violations. These breaches ranged from unregistered operations to unauthorized access to controlled drugs and illegal training of apprentices. Dr. Suleiman Chiroma, who led the exercise, emphasized the need to enforce proper drug distribution channels to ensure public safety. He warned that any violation of the National Drug Distribution Guidelines would be sanctioned.. PCN added that the public can identify genuine pharmacies and PPMVs by their respective licences being conspicuously displaced in the premises as well as report unauthorized operators to the state office.

16th May, 2025: Leadership