NMA Urges Govt To Check Outbreak Of Diseases

The Nigerian Medical As
sociation (NMA), has appealed to the government to scale up public health enlightenment and environmental management strategies in order to prevent Vector Borne Diseases(VBDs) in the country.
This is contained in a statement issued in Abuja, by Dr Osahon Enbulele, NMA President, ahead of the World Health Day, celebrated on April 7 of every year.
The theme of this year’s celebration is: “Protection against Vector Borne Diseases (VBDs).”
According to Enbulele, vectors are commonly found in areas characterised by scarcity of potable water, poor housing conditions, poor environmental hygiene and abject poverty.
“NMA is of the view that until an aggressive, deeply committed, well-funded and supervised environmental management programme is instituted, Nigeria may not heave a sigh of relief in her fight against the disease laden organisms. “We expect government to enforce strict implementation of enabling public health and housing laws; institute measures for proper waste/sewage disposal and other preventive measures, construct roads with standard well maintained drains,’’ he said.
He stressed the need for government to increase budgetary allocation to the health sector in order to sustain government agencies charged with responsibilities of disease prevention and control.
“We, therefore, call on government at all levels involved with appropriation to reconsider the amount allocated to the health sector. “This will enable concerned ministries, departments and agencies prepare adequately to manage whatever emergencies and pandemics that might likely ensue,’’ he stated.
The NMA, however, advised Nigerians not to abandon the ideals of personal hygiene, environmental and home sanitation, as well as other home grown innovative vector control measures.