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COVID-19: Presidential task force works on compensation packages of healthworkers – Osagie

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Minister of Health, Dr Osagie Ehanire has said the Presidential Task Force (PTF) is working on compensation packages which include Life Insurance and hazard allowances for health care workers for their sacrifices toward the coronavirus challenge.

He made this known at the PTF briefing, on Monday as he confirmed a total of 323 covid -19 cases. He stated that 85 patients had been discharged with 10 deaths recorded and 5 new cases reported from three states, Lagos 2, Kwara 2, and Katsina 1.

The Minister stated also that there are 11 covid-19 functional laboratories in Nigeria saying also that two additional ones are activated in Kano and Katsina. He also said that “We have pre-positioned laboratory testing samples and collection kits nationwide”.

Dr Ehanire hinted that, the Federal Ministry of Health through the Nigeria Center for Disease Control (NCDC) had continued to support response activities in states with new outbreaks, through timely deployment of Rapid Response teams. He revealed that the accreditation team had finalized protocols for use in accrediting isolation and treatment centers to assure maintenance of standards. He said he had inspected four centers which had already being accredited in Abuja, stating also that FMoH and FCT would meet to harmonize their project.

Speaking further, the Minister said that the case management team had concluded training of health care workers in Abuja who he said would attend to patients in this isolation and treatment centers. He enjoined states to adhere to the standards advised by the accreditation team and by professional colleagues, that it is very risky to treat corona virus patients in private homes or in their hospital establishments without IPC training and accreditation. The hazard he said, is serious with regard to self-infection and cross infection evidence of which had manifested in some states.

The Minister informed that the Federal Ministry of Health had begun the comprehensive review of the health sector COVID-19 response, in order to build a new robust strategic action plan and structure that would address expected challenges of the imminent community transition phase, the outcome of which he said will be made public in a few days.

Dr. Ehanire recognized the support and solidarity by organizations, associations and individuals who had generously donated various items to support the response. “I assure them that the items shall be utilized efficiently for the best outcomes”. He appealed from a health point of view with citizens for understanding and adhering to public health advisories and further urged them to observe the stay at home directives, in order to reduce the transmission of the virus. He said the stay at home also allows NCDC better opportunity and time to trace and find persons of interest at home, for significant scale up of testing. He asked all persons to fully cooperate with tracers. “Testing alone is not enough if the positive persons are not in isolation for their own safety and the safety of their family and friends”. He also advised all to cooperate with authorities and accept invitation to isolation and treatment centers even if they feel well saying that COVID-19 will often not show any symptoms in some persons, while they may be highly infectious to others.

According to Health Minister it is important citizens still maintain physical distancing of about six feet and implement the hand and respiratory hygiene. He said an additional way to protect against corona infection is the face mask and it includes improvised and homemade face masks or face covering with handkerchief or scarfs. This he said, guards against particle emission during laughter, exclamation, or loud talk.

Dr. Ehanire said “It is gratifying that Governors are reiterating and taking measures to press for physical distancing and maintenance of hand and respiratory hygiene”.

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Oyo: Oseni to Launch Mobile Clinic Initiative to Revitalize Rural Healthcare

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A member representing Ibarapa East/Ido federal constituency of Oyo State at the House of Representatives, Engr. Aderemi Oseni, has announced a plan to launch a “Mobile Clinic” programme aimed at providing essential healthcare services directly to rural communities across the constituency.

Scheduled to begin in the first quarter of 2025, this initiative underscores Oseni’s commitment to expanding healthcare access, particularly for underserved populations.

Speaking on Saturday at the 10th-anniversary celebration of God’s Knot Hospital in Ologuneru, Ibadan, the lawmaker, who also chairs the House Committee on the Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA), highlighted the programme’s primary objective: bringing healthcare closer to the people.

“Every community deserves attention; healthcare should never be bound by geographical barriers,” Oseni stated.

He explained that the mobile clinics would deliver essential health check-ups, screenings, and preventive care in remote areas, allowing residents to access quality healthcare without traveling long distances.

As part of his broader healthcare agenda, Oseni informed, through a statement by his media aide, Idowu Ayodele, that he has already facilitated the construction of two fully equipped maternity centers within his constituency, both slated for commissioning before December 2024. He also disclosed plans to establish two modern general hospitals in 2025, further strengthening his commitment to building a healthier community.

The lawmaker expressed interest in collaborating with God’s Knot Hospital on the mobile clinic project, calling for partnerships to support sustainable healthcare initiatives that enhance the quality of life for vulnerable populations in the constituency.

“I resonate deeply with the mission of God’s Knot Hospital,” Oseni shared, adding that such partnerships would significantly improve healthcare in Oyo State”.

The anniversary event attracted distinguished guests, including former Ondo State Governor Dr. Olusegun Mimiko, whom Oseni commended for his contributions to healthcare, particularly through the Mother and Child Hospitals that transformed maternal and child healthcare in Ondo State.

Oseni urged philanthropists, government bodies, and international organizations to support healthcare projects like the upcoming mobile clinics, emphasising that the improvement of healthcare services is a shared responsibility.

 

 

 

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NAFDAC Shuts Maiduguri Market Over Sun-Dried Drugs After Flood

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The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has ordered the immediate closure of the Gomboru drug market in Maiduguri following severe flooding that submerged the area and contaminated the drugs sold within the market.

In a statement posted on its official X handle, NAFDAC disclosed that the decision was made after reports surfaced that contaminated drugs, which had been washed and sun-dried for resale, were being sold at the market.

“After the recent flooding in Maiduguri that submerged the Gomboru drug market where contaminated drugs were washed and sun-dried for resale, the @DGatNAFDAC ordered the immediate closure of the market to conduct a thorough shop-to-shop removal of these compromised drugs,” the agency wrote.

The flooding, which ravaged Maiduguri, was triggered by the rupture of the Alau dam on the Ngadda River, located 20 kilometers (12 miles) south of the city.

The floodwaters claimed at least 30 lives and displaced 400,000 residents, leaving large parts of the city and surrounding areas in devastation.

NAFDAC’s intervention is aimed at safeguarding public health by preventing the sale and consumption of contaminated drugs.

The agency has mobilized teams to inspect the market and ensure the removal of all compromised pharmaceutical products.

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Cholera Outbreak: Rep Oseni Urges Residents to Prioritise Hygiene, Safety Measures

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Engr. Aderemi Oseni, Chairman of the House Committee on Federal Road Maintenance Agency (FERMA) and the lawmaker representing Ibarapa East/Ido Federal Constituency of Oyo State has expressed deep concern following the recent outbreak of cholera cases in the state.

Cholera, a highly contagious bacterial infection transmitted through contaminated water and food, poses significant health risks, particularly in densely populated areas with inadequate sanitation.

Oseni urged residents of Oyo State, especially those in his constituency, to prioritise hygiene practices and strictly adhere to recommended safety measures, emphasising the critical importance of proactive measures to halt the disease’s spread.

In a statement issued on Monday by his media aide, Idowu Ayodele, in Ibadan, the state capital, the lawmaker underscored the necessity of maintaining clean water sources and practicing proper sanitation methods.

“Cholera outbreaks can be significantly reduced if we all take responsibility for our hygiene habits and ensure our surroundings are clean,” he stated.

The APC chieftain also stressed the urgency of seeking prompt medical attention at the first signs of symptoms such as diarrhea and vomiting, which are characteristic of cholera.

“Early detection and treatment are crucial in combating cholera and preventing its spread. Access to safe drinking water and adequate sanitation are fundamental rights that must be upheld, especially during health crises like this,” he asserted.

Oseni further called for unity and collective action in combating the cholera outbreak.

He expressed confidence that through concerted efforts and vigilant adherence to preventive measures, communities can contain and ultimately overcome this challenging public health issue.

“By working together, maintaining vigilance, and prioritising hygiene practices, we can effectively mitigate the impact of cholera on our communities,” the lawmaker concluded.

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