By Ngozi Onyeakusi—Following a review of the available evidence, Lassa fever, Monkey Pox, Ebola Virus Disease, Yellow Fever, and Poliomyelitis are some of the top emerging and re-emerging infectious diseases outbreaks Nigeria has battled.

The rising cases of
emerging and re-emerging infectious diseases threaten all countries in the world by affecting both human lives and economic capital of the nation.

The situation has raised some questions: Why are so many infectious diseases coming up so suddenly? Should Nigerians be concerned? What are the implications? What must the government, the media and individuals do to keep safe and preserve humanity?

To find solutions to the problems posed by these diseases outbreaks , the Health Writers’ Association of Nigeria (HEWAN), will hold its 12th Annual symposium with theme – : ‘Emerging and Re-emerging Infectious Diseases: Implications and Solutions’.

While the sub-theme of the symposium is titled : ‘Achieving Universal Health Coverage through Mandatory Health Insurance: Role of NHIA’.

The event which will hold on Dec. 20, 2022 at the NECA House, Alausa, Ikeja, will feature the Dr Japhet Olugbogi, Medical Officer, Lagos State Ministry of Health, as the lead speaker.

Olugbogi is a Public Health Specialist with a strong passion for humanitarian activities, social criticism, good governance, public health, community and social development.

Since his research interest is on Vaccine Hesitancy and Vaccine Preventable Diseases, he will be speaking on the main theme of the symposium:

The sub-theme would be delivered by the Lagos State Coordinator, National health Insurance Authority, Dr. Aisha Abubakar Haruna.

The symposium which would be chaired by Dr Jimmy Arigbabuwo, National President, Healthcare Providers Association of Nigeria, would also have the Lagos State Commissioner for Health, Prof Akin Abayomi and Dr Monica Hemben Eimunjeze, NAFDAC DG as special guests of honour.

Mrs Chioma Obinna, President, HEWAN, said the symposium would help in shaping the skills and knowledge of health reporters who were critical stakeholders in the progress of the health sector as well as major player in the quest for Universal Health Coverage.

She said: “We have made extensive arrangement for a hitch-free event, everything has been put in place, and we are hopeful of an impactful lecture.