Malaria still life threatening disease – PSN

From Femi Oyelola, Kaduna

The Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN) kaduna State Branch has said malaria is still a life-threatening disease especially in pregnant women and children under 5 years of age.
The PSN Chairman Pharm Talatu Uwa Ebune stated this in a statement made available to media in kaduna yesterda
Pharm Talatu Uwa Ebune disclosed that about 3.3 billion people – half of the world population still live at risk of this preventable and treatable disease.
“Africa carries the highest share of the global malaria burden and Nigeria accounted for the 25% out of the 219 million global cases of malaria in 2017, it accounts for 60% of outpatient visits and 30% hospitalization in Nigeria.
“ Malaria is associated with a significant burden on public health and economic stability, and has a direct impact on households’ income, wealth and productivity of both the sick and the caregivers. “ she said
Speaking on the forthcoming World Malaria Day on 25th April, she said it is a day to highlight the need for continued investment and sustained political commitment for malaria prevention, control, and drive down the incidence to zero.
As part of the activities to commemorate this day, she said PSN Kaduna State Chapter is organizing public enlightenment campaigns on malaria prevention, malaria testing and distribution of malaria prevention materials on 26th April, 2021 by 10:00 am at the PSN Kaduna secretariat, No.2 Ali Akilu road Kaduna.
The PSN Chairman added that the theme of the World Malaria Day 2021 is “Zero Malaria starts with me” and
Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria Sub Theme is “Pharmacists stand against Malaria.”
“ we would like to commend the efforts of all stakeholders (governments, health care team, international partners led by W.H.O, donor agencies, etc.) for the successes achieved in the fight against malaria so far.