Health

Infantile immunisation

By Ofemile Blessing Afeghese

Infantile immunisation is the process of making babies or toddlers resistant or immune to certain infections or diseases. It is vaccinating babies and young children to protect their health from serious and potentially life-threatening diseases. Immunisation gives infants the immunity to fight diseases that can cause long-term health issues or even death.

According to the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) in 2019, Vaccines are products usually given in childhood to protect against serious, often deadly diseases. By stimulating the body’s natural defences, they prepare the body to fight the disease faster and more effectively.

Infantile immunisation is important because infants are vulnerable to infections, and their immune systems are not fully developed. Immunisation provides them with protection during this critical period of their lives. Vaccines are given to babies to protect them against serious illnesses like polio, which can cause paralysis; measles, which can cause brain swelling and blindness; whooping cough (pertussis); and tetanus, which can cause painful muscle contractions and difficulty eating and breathing, especially in newborns.

Abdullah Sani, a 39-year-old survivor of polio, said, “Growing up, I realised I couldn’t do what children my age could do with their legs. I wanted to run, jump, play with my friends and do everything my peers were doing, but I couldn’t. I felt terrible.

At the age of three, doctors told my parents that I would never walk again. My mum cried profusely as she resolved with my dad to fight the disease that had disabled me. I was taken to many hospitals and traditional healers in search of a cure, but the search was fruitless as there was no cure for polio. The disease took my ability to walk.”

World Health Organisation (WHO) stated in 2024 that vaccines and immunisation currently prevent 3.5 million to 5 million deaths yearly from diseases like diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, influenza, and measles globally.

In Nigeria, the National Programme on Immunization (NPI) in the year 2014 stated that routine immunisation of children in Nigeria is carried out using the following vaccines: BCG ( Bacilli Calmette Guerin) at birth or as soon as possible after birth; OPV (Oral Polio Vaccine) at birth and 6, 10, and 14 weeks of age; DPT (Diphtheria, pertussis, tetanus) at 6, 10, and 14 weeks of age; Hepatitis B at birth, 6 and 14 weeks; Measles at 9 months of age; Yellow Fever at 9 months of age and Vitamin A at 9 months and 15 months of age.

Nigerian Federal Ministry of Health states that a child is considered fully vaccinated if they have received a BCG vaccination against tuberculosis; three doses of DPT to prevent diphtheria; pertussis (whooping cough); tetanus and at least three doses of polio vaccine; and one dose of measles vaccine. All these vaccinations should be received for five visits during the first year of life, including the doses delivered at birth. According to this schedule, children between 12–23 months would have completed their immunisations and be fully immunised.

According to UNICEF, in 2019, infantile immunisation was one of the most effective ways to protect babies from preventable diseases. Health experts say that vaccinating your child not only safeguards their health but also contributes to the overall well-being of the community.

 Vaccines are safe and effective and have played a crucial role in reducing and eradicating dangerous diseases. By following the recommended immunisation schedule, parents can protect their babies from the serious risks of infectious diseases, giving them the best possible start in life.

Ofemile Blessing Afeghese wrote from Bayero University, Kano.

The benefits and effects of drinking cold water

By Amrah Musa Kamaruddeen

Water is vital for our health, influencing everything from digestion to metabolism. While most people focus on how much water they drink, the temperature of that water can also have significant effects on our health. Water temperatureis measured using two primary scales: Celsius and Fahrenheit. Celsius is the most commonly used scale globally, while Fahrenheit is used primarily in the United States.

Cold water refers to water that is lower than room temperature. The average room temperature is between 20 and 25 degrees Celsius (68 and 77 degrees Fahrenheit), so water below this range is considered cold. In Celsius, cold water is defined as 0 to 15 degrees Celsius, while Fahrenheit is between 32 and 59 degrees Fahrenheit. This article explores the benefits and potential drawbacks of consuming cold water.

Benefits of Drinking Cold Water:

1. Enhances Metabolic Rate:

Drinking cold water can boost your metabolic rate, aiding in burning more calories. The human body burns calories when maintaining our core temperature; therefore, when we drink cold water, the body expends energy to warm the cold water to the core temperature, thereby burning calories.

2. Improves Digestion:

Cold water after a meal can aid digestion. It can contract stomach muscles, speeding digestion and facilitating nutrient absorption.

3. Reduces Inflammation:

Cold water can help reduce inflammation. Post-exercise, drinking cold water may soothe sore muscles and mitigate inflammation.

4. Aids Hydration:

Many people find cold water more satisfying, which may encourage higher water intake and better daily hydration.

Effects of Drinking Cold Water:

1. May Disrupt Digestion:

While cold water can be beneficial after a meal, consuming it during meals may interfere with digestion by solidifying fats, making them harder to digest.

2. Can Cause Headaches: 

Drinking cold water rapidly can trigger headaches or migraines as the cold temperature may constrict blood vessels in the head.

3. May Lead to Colds:

Cold water does not cause colds, but it might weaken the immune response, making individuals more susceptible to infections.

4. Can Aggravate Gallstones:

Gallstones are small stones, usually made of cholesterol, that form in the gallbladder.

For those with gallstones, cold water may cause gallbladder contractions, potentially intensifying symptoms.

In conclusion, while drinking cold water offers several benefits, it’s essential to be mindful of how and when you consume it. Opt for room temperature or warm water during meals to aid digestion, and enjoy cold water as a refreshing option throughout the day.

Amrah Musa Kamaruddeen wrote from the Department of Mass Communication, Bayero University, Kano.

Climate Change: Nigerians in the rainy season

By Umar Fatima Shehu

The weather and environment have hindered people’s health due to rapid rainfall, dam overflow, bushy environment, and unclean water.

According to the Reliefweb report, some states in the northern part of Nigeria have been experiencing continuous rainfall, which has caused drainage blockages, floods, crop loss, and soil erosion in states such as Kano, Borno, Adamawa, Yobe, Bauchi, Sokoto, Zamfara, and Jigawa.

KANO

Obstruction of drainages, a bushy environment, and unclean water are affecting the people’s health in Kano, as there are few drainage provisions. 

At Bayero University Kano, this closure has affected the flow of waste products from the hostel latrines. The male hostels (Aliko Dangote, El-El-Kamis) and some of the female hostels are affected by this issue, which is not harmful to the health of the students residing and passing along the building.

Due to unknown circumstances, the management of the university has not been providing sufficient water to the hostels, leading to students fetching water from unclean sources such as rainwater from the rooftop of the hostel building, broken pipes surrounded by stagnant water, etc.

The closure of drainages and bushy environment has led to too much stagnant water around the university. This water helps to generate more mosquitoes and reptiles. The high rate of students visiting the school clinically is evidence of a lack of environmental hygiene. Several students have been diagnosed with malaria, fever, typhoid, cough, etc.

BORNO

The ancient city of Borno, Maiduguri, was flooded due to the overflow of the Alau Dam in Konduga. This led to home loss, missing relatives, and destruction of amenities, including health facilities.

According to a report by the Nigeria Health Watch, over 400,000 people are displaced. The state is at a high risk of infectious disease outbreaks because of camp crowdness, lack of clean drinking water, unhygienic conditions, shortage of health facilities, etc.

According to Chachu Tadicha, deputy director of program operations/humanitarian at Save the Children,” the flood has posed a serious risk to food security because crops in the field have been severely damaged. With this, there will be an increasing rate of malnutrition.”

The flood has contaminated the environment with specks of dirt from the disposals and drainages, which has caused stagnant water to serve as a breeding ground for mosquitoes. The Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare stated, “Chlorine tablets, anti-malaria treatment, bednet, etc., are being sent from other states to Maiduguri to address the potential increase in malaria cases.”

WAKE UP CALL

Dams and riverbank overflow caused most flood incidents. The Federal and State governments should work to prevent the reoccurrence of such incidents again in the country by ensuring the appropriate use of signed bills for their purpose.

Hormonal symphony and complexity: The male version

By Aisha Musa Auyo 

Hormones influence a considerable percentage of our behaviours and physical appearance. If we say our hormones are what make us, we won’t be exaggerating. Yet we hardly discuss it; thus, only a few know about it or believe in it.

Hormones regulate critical bodily functions such as metabolism, blood pressure, growth, reproduction, and mood. Even small changes in hormone levels can significantly impact our health, affecting everything from sleep and energy to appearance and cognitive function.

I’ve summarised the explanation in the most straightforward language possible so that I wouldn’t suffocate you with medical jargon. As promised, this outing is about male hormones…Finally.

Puberty in boys, typically starting between ages 9 and 14, is driven by hormonal changes, mainly testosterone. This triggers physical changes like increased sweating, acne, voice deepening, growth spurts, and the onset of sexual attraction. Emotionally, boys may experience mood swings, irritability, and seek independence.

Because they sweat a lot due to changes in their hormones and physical activities, they are bound to smell. This is one of the best times to ensure that they master personal hygiene, as they’re too old to be bathed by their mothers. Do this, and his wife will thank you later.

Teenage boys should learn about Islamic teachings on wet dreams and ritual baths. They should also learn about weekly shaving, the use of deodorants and perfumes, proper bathing, and washing underwear and sportswear as regularly as possible. 

At this crucial stage, parental support is vital. Don’t ignore and assume that boys don’t need attention and sympathy. They need it as much as their female counterparts. Parents should be patient, encourage open communication, set healthy boundaries, and model empathy. Ensure a healthy lifestyle with proper nutrition, regular exercise, and adequate sleep (at least 8 hours).

This is the phase when boys are likely to succumb to peer pressure and are likely to experiment on good, bad, and ugly, as they are fearless and careless. Parents should pay attention and make efforts to curb the impact of peer pressure, sexual attraction, and risky behaviours by monitoring their (a) friends, (b) how they use social media, (c) discussing the consequences of actions and inactions, and, (d) most importantly, prayers and setting a positive example. 

Parents should also promote emotional intelligence by having heart-to-heart talks with their male children, validating their feelings, and encouraging open expression. This gesture will go a long way in teaching them about expressing their feelings, listening to others, and communication in general.

Puberty is a crucial stage in a boy’s life, shaping both his body and mind. With patience, understanding, and the proper guidance, parents can help their sons navigate this period confidently, setting the foundation for healthy adulthood.

Men’s hormone levels stabilise in early adulthood, peaking in testosterone around age 20 and growth hormone around 25. After age 30, testosterone decreases by 1% annually, and growth hormone declines by 2-5% every five years. Cortisol, the “stress hormone,” and melatonin, which regulates sleep, become important for well-being.

During fatherhood, testosterone may drop, potentially reducing aggression and libido. In midlife, decreases in aldosterone and growth hormones can affect blood pressure and muscle mass. In late life, low testosterone impacts sperm quality and fertility. Ageing men should also monitor glucocorticoid and insulin levels, as imbalances can affect metabolism, memory, and diabetes risk.

Let me share some fundamental secrets with you. While women’s hormonal rollercoasters are quite pronounced, men’s hormone levels are mostly stable. However, the productivity, compassion, and cooperation of a boy-cum-man are boosted when they feel accepted, respected, appreciated, admired, and validated. 

Lack or shortage of the abovementioned elements will make a man’s emotions unpredictable. It will trigger reactions similar to women experiencing hormonal changes and mood swings.

We need to know how to treat the male gender with these measures from childhood. It’s the only way to get them to do what is desired of them. Naturally, that’s how our Creator made them. 

Being treated with respect and admiration will make a man (and a boy) drop his ego and defences without even knowing it. (Just like how love and caring open a woman’s heart and make her drop defences). Au, na tuna, this outing is for za other gender ko? LOL!

Anyway, as wives and mothers, knowing this will go a long way in helping us in our relationships with husbands, male children, and the other gender in general.

Aisha Musa Auyo is a Doctorate researcher in Educational Psychology. A wife, a mother, a homemaker, caterer, parenting, and relationship coach. She can be reached via aishamuauyo@live.co.uk.

Reproductive diet: foods that boost fertility among couples

By Maimuna Katuka Aliyu

When planning to conceive, couples should often focus on what they eat. Although choosing foods based on mood or preference is common, certain dietary considerations become essential when aiming to have a baby.

Doctors frequently recommend specific foods and advise against others to ensure both the mother’s and baby’s health, reducing the risk of complications or miscarriage.

Fertility refers to the ability of couples to conceive. For those trying to have a child, adjusting the diet is crucial in preparing the body for pregnancy. Research suggests that diets rich in whole grains, vegetables, fruits, and fish can significantly improve fertility, particularly in women.

Moreover, these foods can contribute to a healthy start in pregnancy, which is why doctors generally recommend maintaining a nutritious diet during this period.

Conceiving a baby can take time. While 30% of couples get pregnant in the first month of trying, some may still be trying after a year. Although no diet can resolve underlying medical issues affecting fertility, certain foods can support the reproductive system better than others.

These foods are rich in antioxidants and nutrients that enhance ovulation or improve sperm quality and quantity. Since infertility issues can equally involve male partners, it’s advisable for both partners to adopt a fertility-friendly diet.

Protein-Rich Foods: Lean meats like chicken, turkey, pork, and beef (trimmed of excess fat) are excellent sources of protein, zinc, and iron—vital nutrients for a healthy pregnancy. Additionally, cold-water fish such as salmon, canned light tuna, and sardines are rich in DHA and omega-3 fatty acids, which support the development of the baby’s nervous system and reduce the risk of premature birth.

Fish can be included in a fertility diet a few times a week without worrying about mercury levels. However, it is best to avoid fish known for higher mercury content, such as shark, swordfish, tilefish, and king mackerel.

Fertility-Boosting Foods: While no specific food guarantees pregnancy, ensuring a healthy diet can support fertility. Below are some foods that are beneficial:

– Fruits and Vegetables: Packed with essential vitamins and antioxidants, these are a staple for a fertility-friendly diet.

– Healthy Fats: Incorporating fats from sources like avocados, nuts, and olive oil can improve fertility.

– Complex Carbs: Whole grains such as brown rice, quinoa, and whole wheat bread help maintain steady blood sugar levels, which is crucial for reproductive health.

– Eggs: A potent source of protein and choline, eggs are essential for brain development in babies and should be included in a fertility diet.

– Plant Proteins: Beans, nuts, seeds, and tofu are excellent sources of protein and healthy fats. Studies have shown that plant-based proteins can reduce the risk of ovulatory disorders, especially when they make up 5% of your total calorie intake.

– Dairy: Full-fat dairy products like whole milk and yogurt are linked to higher fertility rates, while low-fat dairy options have been associated with an increased risk of ovulatory infertility.

– Walnuts: These nuts are high in omega-3 fatty acids and magnesium, which support brain development and reduce the risk of neurologic problems in the baby.

Lifestyle Factors for Fertility 

– Physical Activity: Regular exercise is beneficial for both male and female fertility, especially for those dealing with obesity. Consult with a healthcare professional to determine the most suitable types of exercise.

– Stress Management: Trying to conceive can be stressful, and stress can affect menstrual cycles and fertility. It may be helpful to talk with a mental health professional if stress or anxiety about conceiving is overwhelming.

Foods to Avoid: A healthy fertility diet isn’t just about what you eat; it’s also about what you avoid. Here are some foods that might negatively impact fertility:

– Added Sugar: Found in sugary beverages, baked goods, and ultra-processed carbs, added sugars can disrupt hormonal balance.

– Red and Processed Meats: These meats, especially those high in saturated fats, can adversely affect fertility.

– Caffeine: Excessive caffeine intake has been linked to fertility issues.

– Alcohol: Drinking alcohol can reduce fertility and should be limited or avoided when trying to conceive.

Incorporating fertility-boosting foods into your diet is a delicious and effective way to support reproductive health and increase your chances of conception. By focusing on nutrient-dense foods like leafy greens, berries, fatty fish, and whole grains, couples can create a strong foundation for a healthy pregnancy.

Additionally, staying hydrated, limiting processed foods, and managing stress can contribute to a fertility-friendly lifestyle. While no single food or diet can guarantee pregnancy, making informed dietary choices is a powerful tool in your reproductive journey. Nourish your body, nourish your fertility, and take the first step towards a healthier, happier you!

Diarrhoea outbreak claims lives, hundreds hospitalised in Adamawa

By Uzair Adam 

At least ten people, primarily women, children, and the elderly, have died due to a diarrhoea outbreak in Yola North and Yola South Local Government Areas of Adamawa State. 

The death toll is feared to rise as several hospitalised victims remain in critical condition.

The Adamawa State Commissioner for Health, Mr Felix Tangwami, confirmed the incident to reporters in Yola and provided updates on the situation that began earlier in the week. 

He noted that around 300 individuals have been admitted to Yola Specialist Hospital, with some patients still in critical condition.

“Those with severe cases have been isolated at the hospital’s Infectious Disease Center to receive specialised care,” Tangwami said, adding that efforts are underway to manage the outbreak.

Tangwami emphasised that the government is doing everything possible to control the spread and is following due process in addressing the crisis. 

He mentioned that sample results from the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) are expected within 24 hours to confirm whether the outbreak is linked to cholera, as some suspect.

The Commissioner urged the public to refrain from speculation and assured that necessary measures are being taken to protect public health.

Gombe SEC approves over ₦3bn to revitilise health sector

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

The Gombe State Executive Council has approved the revitalization of 82 primary healthcare facilities across the state’s 11 local government areas to ensure affordable and quality healthcare for all citizens.

The Commissioner for Information, Culture, and Ethical Orientation, Mijinyawa Ardo Tilde, announced this after the 41st Executive Council Meeting presided over by Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya.

The Commissioner for Health, Dr. Babu Habu Dahiru, explained that the approval was aimed at providing at least two primary healthcare facilities in each of the state’s 114 political wards.

This initiative, according to the Commissioner, will complement the 64 facilities revitalized under the World Health Organization’s Impact Project and the additional 10 facilities supported by UNICEF.

The revitalization efforts will include equipping facilities, drilling boreholes, installing solar power, and renovating infrastructure, including staff quarters.The Executive Council also approved N1.1 billion for the transportation and logistics of medical equipment donated by the World Medical Relief in the USA to Gombe State.

Furthermore, the Council ratified the 2025-2027 Medium Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF), encompassing the Economic and Fiscal Update, Fiscal Strategy Paper, and Budget Policy Statement.

The Commissioner of Finance, Mohammed Gambo Magaji, explained that the MTEF would serve as the basis for preparing the 2025 appropriation bill.Additionally, the Council approved a Monitoring and Evaluation framework to measure and assess performance across government agencies, staff members, and the Executive Council.

The Council authorized the payment of N265 million as promotion arrears to staff of Gombe State University (GSU).The Executive Council also approved N394 million for the completion of projects at the Muhammadu Buhari Industrial Park, including fencing, gully erosion control, and consultant payments.

Also, the Commissioner of Energy and Mineral Resources, Sanusi Ahmad, announced the approval of N575 million as counterpart funding to construct a mini-hydroelectric power station at Balanga Dam. This station, according to him, will generate 320 kilowatts of electricity for irrigation and rural electrification, to be implemented in collaboration with the European Union.

The Commissioner of Works, Housing, and Transport, Engr Maijama’a Kallamu, said the Executive Council approved N2.23 billion for the construction of a 7.5-hectare mechanic village near the recently commissioned Ibrahim Dankwambo Mega Motor Park. This project includes land procurement, infrastructure development, and other essential facilities.

The Commissioner also announced Council’s approval of N779 million for the installation of additional solar-powered streetlights in the state capital.

Hormones: The symphony behind complexities in human behaviours, looks, and emotions

By Aisha Musa Auyo

Hormones influence or determine a considerable percentage of our behaviours and physical appearance. If we say our hormones are what makes us, we won’t be exaggerating. Yet, we hardly discuss it. Yet very few know about it; very few believe in its impact. From genetics to behavioural scientists to physiologists and psychologists, these specialists believe in the power of hormones, especially in women. I will try my best to write in the simplest language possible so that I will not suffocate you with medical jargon.

Hormones are chemicals that coordinate different bodily functions by carrying messages through the blood to the various organs, the skin, muscles, and other tissues. Hormones are the signals that tell your body what to do and when to do it. There is no gainsaying, therefore, that hormones are essential for life and health. So far, scientists have identified over 50 hormones in the human body.

 Hormones control many bodily processes, including metabolism, homeostasis (constant internal balance), such as blood pressure and blood sugar regulation, fluid (water) and electrolyte balance, body temperature, growth and development. Hormones also affect sexual function, reproduction, sleep-wake cycle, and mood.

With hormones, a little bit goes a long way. Because of this, minor changes in levels can cause significant changes to your body and lead to certain conditions that require medical attention. The levels and nature of hormones in the body correlate with our moods, sense of smell, body odour, taste buds, thinking faculty, energy, and looks. 

In this week’s outing, I will start with women, as they are the gender whose hormones have a greater influence and impact on their lives. If you have a woman in your life, regardless of your relationship with her, know that hormones are constantly influencing her. 

Growing up and transitioning into a woman is a roller-coaster of emotional and physical changes. There will be noticeable differences in her attitude, looks, behaviour, and even how she smells. There will be irritability, sadness, and heightened or lowered confidence.

Women have heightened hormonal influence during certain periods. When she grows from a girl to an adult, when she’s ovulating, and at different times when she is on her monthly period. There is a hormonal influence in pregnancy when she is breastfeeding and when she is using hormonal contraceptives. There is yet another hormonal issue at menopause, just as it is at adolescence. 

A few days to menstrual onset (ovulation periods), a woman experiences a libido boost, appetite changes, heightened sense of smell and mood changes…usually in a good mood. But, during the onset of their period, a woman will experience cramps, dizziness, bloating, acne breakout, feeling tired, and mood swings…sadness, anger and anxiety. It isjust a roller-coaster of feelings and emotions. 

When pregnant (this should be a topic of its own), a woman is most likely to experience, among other things, morning sickness, dizziness, nausea, and vomiting; strange food cravings; fatigue; heightened sense of smell; forgetfulness; lack of patience; and crying for no explicit reasons. Bro, be patient and empathic; it’s beyond her. 

Then there comes the postpartum and breastfeeding period, which is associated with crying, difficulty in making decisions, lack of sleep or oversleeping, tiredness, mood swings, etc. Not infrequently, a woman may fall into depression at this phase. 

Then, there are issues relating to the use of contraceptives. These range from headache, migraine, acne, weight loss or gain, hair loss, smooth skin, dryness, and mood swings. The signs are numerous, depending on the woman and the type of contraceptives used.

Then, there is the advent of menopause, which comes with palpitations, hot or cold flashes, difficulty sleeping, tiredness and irritability, dryness and a whole lot of other changes.

Have you ever noticed how a woman can be so lovely today and nasty the next day for no reason? Have you ever seen a woman cry just like that? Have you ever seen a woman with clear skin today and skin full of rashes or acne tomorrow? Have you ever noticed that a woman can be thin today and bloated the day after? Know that these amazing, dramatic transformations result from the interplay of hormones. You have to be tolerant, understanding, and kind.

As a husband, father, son, brother, or friend, you need to understand the complexities of hormones in women to a certain level. This will help you make informed decisions about certain behaviours. This might help explain some oddities in women’s behaviour you experience or notice. The knowledge will help you and be the person she needs during those trying periods.

Sometimes, all a woman needs is space, silence, patience, kind words, empathy, massages, or a shoulder to cry on (that is, if she’s your wife, yauwa!). Chocolates, a listening ear, a credit alert (LOL!), hot tea, a pain killer, or taking her on a walk may be the healing or soothing balm.

The above is just a summary of what women go through. I will expound on each stage in subsequent editions, each stage as a topic of itself, and see how we can navigate through each milestone of hormonal symphony and the complexities of women’s health and emotions. Insha Allah.

Dear reader, but do you know that men, too, have hormones and emotional issues which we overlook? From childhood to adolescence and adulthood, men also come under certain societal expectations and pressure to suppress their feelings. I will try to summarise that in my next article.

Aisha Musa Auyo is a Doctorate researcher in Educational Psychology, a wife, a mother of three, a homemaker, a chef, and a parenting/ relationship coach. She can be reached via aishamuauyo@live.co.uk.

Man finds relief after 17-Year battle with groin inflammation caused by mosquito

By Uzair Adam Imam

After enduring 17 years of chronic groin inflammation, a 72-year-old man in Switzerland finally found relief.

Doctors at University Hospital Basel identified the cause as a parasitic infection contracted through mosquito bites decades earlier.

The man, who remained anonymous, suffered significant swelling in his penis, scrotum, and left leg.

Doctors noted severe inflammation upon examination, with bloodwork showing double the normal levels.

Further investigation revealed microscopic worms responsible for lymphatic filariasis.

An antibody test confirmed the presence of Wuchereria bancrofti, transmitted through mosquito bites.

These worms hatch in the bloodstream, travel through the lymph system, and cause swelling.

Treatment with diethylcarbamazine and albendazole proved effective, with the man’s symptoms completely resolving within two months.

This case, published in the New England Journal of Medicine, emphasizes the importance of seeking medical attention for persistent and unusual symptoms, regardless of embarrassment.

Ex-minister recounts near-death experience at hospital over deposit failure

By Uzair Adam Imam

Former Minister of Sports and Youth Development, Solomon Dalung, recounts his harrowing near-death experience at a hospital in Jos, the Plateau State capital.

Dalung reveals that he fell ill on Wednesday and was rushed to the hospital, where he lost consciousness shortly after undergoing doctor’s interviews.

In a post shared via X on Friday, Dalung recounted being admitted to the emergency ward but left unattended for over four hours due to non-payment of admission deposits.

He shared how he regained partial consciousness and managed to make the necessary deposit before receiving medical attention.

“I took ill on Wednesday, arrived at the hospital, and shortly became unconscious after doctor’s interviews.

“I was ferried into the emergency ward but abandoned for over four hrs due to non-payment of admission deposits.

“Regained partial consciousness and later did the transfer of deposit,” he revealed.

“After that,” he continued, “I fell into unconsciousness again for about seven hours.

“To God be the glory, I have been discharged after three days and recovering. Were it not for partial consciousness to pay the deposits, I would have been Mr. late.

“Many Nigerians have gone this way. Where is our humanity?” Dalung added, highlighting the urgency for better healthcare accessibility and compassion towards patients in need,” he said.