The global emergence of the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19)
in December, 2019 became a major turning point in the global health system. As at 4th May, 2020, the Republic of South Africa, Egypt and Nigeria had 6 783, 6 465 and 2 558 confirmed cases of COVID-19, respectively. Surprisingly, the number of cases in South Africa has risen to 563 598 cases with 10 621 deaths, and the number of cases in Egypt has increased to 95 666 cases with 5 035 deaths while Nigeria has 46 867 cases with 950 deaths[2]. Many African countries that were not having any reported cases of COVID-19 before now have confirmed cases while some experienced a huge spike in the number of confirmed cases due to SARS Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2).
https://doi.org/10.1016/B978-0-323-85156-5.00047-X
This chapter assesses the recent cases of COVID-19 pandemic in Africa. COVID-19, a global pandemic, is spreading so fast across all continents with African region not left out of its ravaging and devastating effects. Nigeria, on May 31, 2020, became the first country in West Africa to hit the 10,000 mark of confirmed COVID-19 cases. This recent spike in COVID-19 cases with accompanying increase in the number of fatalities calls for concern. As of July 21, 2020, Nigeria ranked third in Africa, just behind South Africa and Egypt, while the total number of confirmed cases in Africa has increased to 736,288. What would have led to the increasing cases in Africa? We found that poverty, hunger, people's violation of health guidelines, and increase in the number of laboratory tests for suspected COVID-19 cases are responsible for the sudden and sustained rise in cases in the continent.
Assessment of the Spatial and Temporal Trend of the COVID-19 Pandemic in SenegalAI Publications
Following the declaration of COVID-19 as a global pandemic and the reporting of one case in Senegal, the number of regions with confirmed cases of infection increased considerably, with the disease now being reported throughout the country after 3 months of evolution. It is therefore necessary to assess the evolution of the disease in the country as the situation evolves in order to rapidly identify best practices for adoption. The objective of this paper is to make a preliminary spatial and temporal assessment and comparison of the results of the COVID-19 pandemic in the regions of Senegal. Data on the evolution of COVID-19 (confirmed cases of infection, deaths, recoveries), population, density and area of each region were analysed using a set of statistical tools. The results show that the COVID-19 pandemic has spread stubbornly in Senegal. In the space of 112 days (from March 2 to June 21), Senegal reached a number of 5888 infected cases for 3919 cured, 1885 active and 84 deaths for a total of 67855 tests performed. About 40 people out of 10,000 have been tested so far and 4 out of 10,000 have tested positive. The Mann-Kendall test indicates that the number of confirmed daily cases is slowly increasing, with the slope of Sen estimated at about 1.2 person/day across the country. In addition, the Pettitt test indicates a sharp change in the upward trend across the country on April 26, 2020. Among the main affected regions, Dakar, Thies and Touba are noted with an extremely high rate of increase. Principal component analysis and hierarchical ascending classification have made it possible to divide Senegal's 14 regions into 3 groups in terms of the number of confirmed cases, active cases, recovered cases and reported deaths, and the population, area and density of the region. The 1st group concerns the Dakar region, the 2nd Diourbel and Thies and the 3rd the other regions. Furthermore, statistics related to COVID-19 in the regions of Senegal are highly correlated with population size and density. This study revealed convincing spatial differences in the evolution of the pandemic between the regions of Senegal. The study recommends that the approaches adopted by regions that have achieved very low levels of COVID-19 be incorporated into health care management plans for the pandemic throughout the country, even as the situation evolves.
Three months after the start of the COVID-19 pandemic in Wuhan (China), the African response could be labelled as impressive. Many lessons were learnt by African countries from Ebola epidemic which hit West Africa (2014-2016). Industrial resiliency (mask production at scale), Technological innovations (PCR test local production, machine learning and robotics) and Genomic Prowess (Genome sequence of COVID-19 virus) ; all showed Africa is ready to be part of the global solution to COVID-19. Yet, only 3 clinical trials for vaccine and medicine against the virus were ongoing across the continent at the time of this presentation. The presentation also discusses some of the public health and industrial strategies to build even more resiliency in the continent beyond the pandemic.
In light of the global health crisis, Imperial College Healthcare Club to host the second webinar discussion around Africa’s healthcare system resilience to COVID-19. We are honored to be joined by Dr. Kaouthar Lbiati, who are both currently working on the continent’s response to the pandemic.The event will be a discussion, where the speakers will be presenting their work as well as their views and perspectives around the Healthcare crisis in Africa.
The webinar will focus on :
1. How the healthcare actors based in Africa have been crucial in responding to the pandemic.
3. How the long-term consequences of this crisis can bring major changes in Africa.
Kaouthar Lbiati (MD, MSc) will be emphasising on the wider scope of the healthcare policy & industry and explore the strategies on both that Africa as a continent could
establish to build resilience.
Case Study The pandemic has been less deadly than elsewhere, but Af.pdfakpatra2000
Case Study: The pandemic has been less deadly than elsewhere, but African
economies have suffered a double blow due to graft.
Widespread corruption during the pandemic has worsened the devastating effect of
COVID-19 on Africas economy. Since the continents first case was recorded on 14
February 2020 in Egypt, the virus has affected all countries in the region.
By 6 April 2022, Africa had 11.5 million confirmed cases and 252 000 COVID-19 related
deaths. However according to the World Health Organization, the number of infections
could be as much as 97 times greater than reported cases. Exposure to the virus in
Africa rose from 3% in June 2020 to about 65% by September 2021 equivalent to
over 800 million cases, far more than the 8.2 million documented in that period.
The health risks of the pandemic have been less severe than elsewhere in the world,
with Africa recording the highest level of asymptomatic cases, estimated at 67%. This
has been attributed mainly to the continents large youthful population and lower rates
of underlying conditions such as diabetes, hypertension and other chronic diseases,
which push up hospitalisations and deaths.
Africa has been fortunate in this regard, especially considering its fragile
health systems. But the pandemic exposed structural weaknesses of the continents
economy to devastating effect. Restrictions on movement and commerce curbed
infections but came at a huge cost to Africas already fragile economies.
According to WHO, the number of infections in Africa could be 97 times greater than
reported cases.
According to the African Development Bank, GDP shrunk by 2.1% in 2020, and the
projected export revenue lost from fuel alone was about USD 101 billion that year. With
declining revenues and rising expenditure, fiscal deficits doubled to a historical high of
8.4% of GDP.
The cost of stimulus packages alone ranged from 0.02% of GDP in South Sudan to
about 10.4% in South Africa. As a result, Africas debt burden increased by 10 to 15
percentage points in 2021. Many countries were allowed to default on their foreign debt
with the rising interest rates to tame inflation in advanced countries.
The estimated productive time lost in 2020 due to COVID-19 was equivalent to
around 112 million jobs. In Nigeria, 20% of households lost their employment as of
June 2021, while in South Africa three million jobs were lost during the lockdown. The
pandemic cost Kenya and Ghana over 700 000 jobs. World Bank surveys reveal that
82% of households in Malawi and 80% in Nigeria reported income losses. Likewise,
76% of households in Uganda and 46% in Ethiopia said their incomes had dropped.
About 30 million additional Africans fell into extreme poverty (living on less than USD
1.90 a day) in 2020, with the number estimated to increase to 39 million in 2021. A total
of 465.3 million people, 34.4% of Africas population, were estimated to be in extreme
poverty in 2021.
Most COVID-19 items were procured under a certificate of emergency.
COVID-19: Knowledge Base, Attitudes and Practices among Practising Journalist...Premier Publishers
The Coronavirus pandemic is presently the topic of discussion among various segments of global society. From the developed North to the developing South, within economically poor and rich countries, the huge rates of infection and resulting deaths from the pandemic has surpassed anything seen for a long time. Health systems and economies in both developed and developing countries are challenged in ways never imagined. The global efforts to mitigate the effects of the pandemic are moving at a very fast pace. Public health information is one of the strategies being used to ensure that persons are knowledgeable about the pandemic and adopt practices and protocols that will stem infections within the community. This study was undertaken to gauge the knowledge levels of journalists in the Nigerian capital city of Abuja and the impact of the knowledge on their attitudes and practices. The knowledge, attitudes and practice study model were used to gauge the interrelatedness of these variables among the study group. Logit regression tests, t-tests, chi-square and descriptive analysis were used to determine knowledge levels as well as what factors influenced attitudes and practices towards COVID-19 within the group. Overall, knowledge level amongst the study group was good and had a positive impact on attitude patterns. However, there was no high positive correlation between knowledge and practices. It is suggested that journalists in Nigeria must adhere to public health protocols in order to be able to engage in multi-platform public health information awareness publications which will sensitize the public into observing the COVID containment protocols.
https://doi.org/10.1016/B978-0-323-85156-5.00047-X
This chapter assesses the recent cases of COVID-19 pandemic in Africa. COVID-19, a global pandemic, is spreading so fast across all continents with African region not left out of its ravaging and devastating effects. Nigeria, on May 31, 2020, became the first country in West Africa to hit the 10,000 mark of confirmed COVID-19 cases. This recent spike in COVID-19 cases with accompanying increase in the number of fatalities calls for concern. As of July 21, 2020, Nigeria ranked third in Africa, just behind South Africa and Egypt, while the total number of confirmed cases in Africa has increased to 736,288. What would have led to the increasing cases in Africa? We found that poverty, hunger, people's violation of health guidelines, and increase in the number of laboratory tests for suspected COVID-19 cases are responsible for the sudden and sustained rise in cases in the continent.
Assessment of the Spatial and Temporal Trend of the COVID-19 Pandemic in SenegalAI Publications
Following the declaration of COVID-19 as a global pandemic and the reporting of one case in Senegal, the number of regions with confirmed cases of infection increased considerably, with the disease now being reported throughout the country after 3 months of evolution. It is therefore necessary to assess the evolution of the disease in the country as the situation evolves in order to rapidly identify best practices for adoption. The objective of this paper is to make a preliminary spatial and temporal assessment and comparison of the results of the COVID-19 pandemic in the regions of Senegal. Data on the evolution of COVID-19 (confirmed cases of infection, deaths, recoveries), population, density and area of each region were analysed using a set of statistical tools. The results show that the COVID-19 pandemic has spread stubbornly in Senegal. In the space of 112 days (from March 2 to June 21), Senegal reached a number of 5888 infected cases for 3919 cured, 1885 active and 84 deaths for a total of 67855 tests performed. About 40 people out of 10,000 have been tested so far and 4 out of 10,000 have tested positive. The Mann-Kendall test indicates that the number of confirmed daily cases is slowly increasing, with the slope of Sen estimated at about 1.2 person/day across the country. In addition, the Pettitt test indicates a sharp change in the upward trend across the country on April 26, 2020. Among the main affected regions, Dakar, Thies and Touba are noted with an extremely high rate of increase. Principal component analysis and hierarchical ascending classification have made it possible to divide Senegal's 14 regions into 3 groups in terms of the number of confirmed cases, active cases, recovered cases and reported deaths, and the population, area and density of the region. The 1st group concerns the Dakar region, the 2nd Diourbel and Thies and the 3rd the other regions. Furthermore, statistics related to COVID-19 in the regions of Senegal are highly correlated with population size and density. This study revealed convincing spatial differences in the evolution of the pandemic between the regions of Senegal. The study recommends that the approaches adopted by regions that have achieved very low levels of COVID-19 be incorporated into health care management plans for the pandemic throughout the country, even as the situation evolves.
Three months after the start of the COVID-19 pandemic in Wuhan (China), the African response could be labelled as impressive. Many lessons were learnt by African countries from Ebola epidemic which hit West Africa (2014-2016). Industrial resiliency (mask production at scale), Technological innovations (PCR test local production, machine learning and robotics) and Genomic Prowess (Genome sequence of COVID-19 virus) ; all showed Africa is ready to be part of the global solution to COVID-19. Yet, only 3 clinical trials for vaccine and medicine against the virus were ongoing across the continent at the time of this presentation. The presentation also discusses some of the public health and industrial strategies to build even more resiliency in the continent beyond the pandemic.
In light of the global health crisis, Imperial College Healthcare Club to host the second webinar discussion around Africa’s healthcare system resilience to COVID-19. We are honored to be joined by Dr. Kaouthar Lbiati, who are both currently working on the continent’s response to the pandemic.The event will be a discussion, where the speakers will be presenting their work as well as their views and perspectives around the Healthcare crisis in Africa.
The webinar will focus on :
1. How the healthcare actors based in Africa have been crucial in responding to the pandemic.
3. How the long-term consequences of this crisis can bring major changes in Africa.
Kaouthar Lbiati (MD, MSc) will be emphasising on the wider scope of the healthcare policy & industry and explore the strategies on both that Africa as a continent could
establish to build resilience.
Case Study The pandemic has been less deadly than elsewhere, but Af.pdfakpatra2000
Case Study: The pandemic has been less deadly than elsewhere, but African
economies have suffered a double blow due to graft.
Widespread corruption during the pandemic has worsened the devastating effect of
COVID-19 on Africas economy. Since the continents first case was recorded on 14
February 2020 in Egypt, the virus has affected all countries in the region.
By 6 April 2022, Africa had 11.5 million confirmed cases and 252 000 COVID-19 related
deaths. However according to the World Health Organization, the number of infections
could be as much as 97 times greater than reported cases. Exposure to the virus in
Africa rose from 3% in June 2020 to about 65% by September 2021 equivalent to
over 800 million cases, far more than the 8.2 million documented in that period.
The health risks of the pandemic have been less severe than elsewhere in the world,
with Africa recording the highest level of asymptomatic cases, estimated at 67%. This
has been attributed mainly to the continents large youthful population and lower rates
of underlying conditions such as diabetes, hypertension and other chronic diseases,
which push up hospitalisations and deaths.
Africa has been fortunate in this regard, especially considering its fragile
health systems. But the pandemic exposed structural weaknesses of the continents
economy to devastating effect. Restrictions on movement and commerce curbed
infections but came at a huge cost to Africas already fragile economies.
According to WHO, the number of infections in Africa could be 97 times greater than
reported cases.
According to the African Development Bank, GDP shrunk by 2.1% in 2020, and the
projected export revenue lost from fuel alone was about USD 101 billion that year. With
declining revenues and rising expenditure, fiscal deficits doubled to a historical high of
8.4% of GDP.
The cost of stimulus packages alone ranged from 0.02% of GDP in South Sudan to
about 10.4% in South Africa. As a result, Africas debt burden increased by 10 to 15
percentage points in 2021. Many countries were allowed to default on their foreign debt
with the rising interest rates to tame inflation in advanced countries.
The estimated productive time lost in 2020 due to COVID-19 was equivalent to
around 112 million jobs. In Nigeria, 20% of households lost their employment as of
June 2021, while in South Africa three million jobs were lost during the lockdown. The
pandemic cost Kenya and Ghana over 700 000 jobs. World Bank surveys reveal that
82% of households in Malawi and 80% in Nigeria reported income losses. Likewise,
76% of households in Uganda and 46% in Ethiopia said their incomes had dropped.
About 30 million additional Africans fell into extreme poverty (living on less than USD
1.90 a day) in 2020, with the number estimated to increase to 39 million in 2021. A total
of 465.3 million people, 34.4% of Africas population, were estimated to be in extreme
poverty in 2021.
Most COVID-19 items were procured under a certificate of emergency.
COVID-19: Knowledge Base, Attitudes and Practices among Practising Journalist...Premier Publishers
The Coronavirus pandemic is presently the topic of discussion among various segments of global society. From the developed North to the developing South, within economically poor and rich countries, the huge rates of infection and resulting deaths from the pandemic has surpassed anything seen for a long time. Health systems and economies in both developed and developing countries are challenged in ways never imagined. The global efforts to mitigate the effects of the pandemic are moving at a very fast pace. Public health information is one of the strategies being used to ensure that persons are knowledgeable about the pandemic and adopt practices and protocols that will stem infections within the community. This study was undertaken to gauge the knowledge levels of journalists in the Nigerian capital city of Abuja and the impact of the knowledge on their attitudes and practices. The knowledge, attitudes and practice study model were used to gauge the interrelatedness of these variables among the study group. Logit regression tests, t-tests, chi-square and descriptive analysis were used to determine knowledge levels as well as what factors influenced attitudes and practices towards COVID-19 within the group. Overall, knowledge level amongst the study group was good and had a positive impact on attitude patterns. However, there was no high positive correlation between knowledge and practices. It is suggested that journalists in Nigeria must adhere to public health protocols in order to be able to engage in multi-platform public health information awareness publications which will sensitize the public into observing the COVID containment protocols.
Knowledge and Prevalence of HIV/Aids among Suya Vendors in Kafanchan of Jema’...IIJSRJournal
This study was carried out on knowledge and prevalence of hiv/aids among suya vendors in kafanchan of jema’a local government area of kaduna state. To achieve this objective, the researcher developed and administered a questionnaire on eighty respondents. The likert scale statistical and graphical method was used in testing the null hypothesis. From the study, It was observed that The society or public authority do not educate Suya Vendors about Hiv/Aids. Economic status and educational background among Suya Vendors do not determine their knowledge of Hiv/Aids. It was also discovered that parents, religious leaders or government responsible for Hiv/Aids among Suya Vendors. It was observed that that All Suya Vendors are not knowledgeable about their Hiv Status. It was also observed that Suya Vendors negligent in knowing their status. that Suya Vendors do not tell their sexual partners about their Hiv Status. That Suya Vendors have multiple sexual partners. Both the state and federal government should take on joint projects to combat AIDS at the border areas. Projects including training, counselling, public meeting and rallies may be undertaken for awareness-building to this effect. The government should set up blood testing centre across that will be easily accessible, so that the people at Kafanchan municipal areas can get free access to HIV/AIDS testing. Educational Programmes about safe sex should be provided to the illiterate mass. Radio, TV programmes, visual aids and multimedia on AIDS should be produced to augment their awareness level.
The outbreak and subsequent spread of COVID-19 to the West African sub-region have brought significant changes to the different aspects of our lives and grounded educational and socio-political and economic activities of ECOWAS member states. The pandemic has exposed the poor state of the health systems and shortage in medical supplies and protective gears to cope with the health emergency. In response, strict restrictions were put in place to curb the spread of the virus and these have drastically affected peoples’ lifestyles. However, there has been huge increase in the use of technology in business, education, religion and other activities as people adapt to the changing times in the sub-region. It is the argument of this paper that things cannot return to the way they were before the pandemic, but West African states must strategically plan for the Post COVID-19 era to survive the massive wave of unemployment, socio-economic meltdown and changes in lifestyle. The paper concluded that while the fight against the virus in the sub-region was not collective, post-pandemic recovery must be coordinated, strategically plannedamong member states. It was recommended that the governments should be flexible enough to retain the use of ICT and technology alongside the conventional ways of doing things in the post-pandemic era.
Covid resource india 20th april 2020 reportAkshay Kokala
A quick look at how other countries have tackled it and what we can learn from them.
Do read and share. If you would like to collaborate please write to us at contact@covidresource.in
Social, environmental factors seen behind Africa’s low COVID-19 casesSABC News
COVID-19 transmission in Africa has been marked by relatively fewer infections, which have been on the decline over the past two months, owing to a variety of socio-ecological factors as well as early and strong public health measures taken by governments across the region.
The Coronavirus Disease – 2019 (COVID-19) is officially now a pandemic and not just a public health emergency of international concern as previously labelled. Worldwide, the new coronavirus has infected more than 4.9 million people and leaving more than 300,000 people dead in 188 countries. As countries of the world get locked down in an effort to contain the widespread of the virus, experts are concern about the global impacts of the pandemic on individuals, countries and the world at large. Millions of people are currently under quarantine across the globe. Many countries have responded by proclaiming a public health emergency, closed their borders and restrict incoming flights from high risk countries. This has grossly affected the travel plan of many. Several international programs, conferences, workshops and sporting activities are either postponed or cancelled. As the number of confirmed cases continues to escalate across the globe, hospitals seems to be running out of medical supplies, hospital spaces and personnel. Health workers are being overwhelmed by the numbers of people requesting for testing and treatment. Many of such health workers have been infected with the coronavirus and even lost their lives since the fight against COVID-19 started. Public health experts are also concerned about the huge medical wastes coming from the hospitals at this time and the adverse effects associated with improper management of such medical wastes, both at the hospital and community levels. The pandemic has also impacted negatively on the global economy. There have been serious crises in the stock market, with gross fall in the price of crude oil resulting in inflation and economic hardship among the populace. Many are currently out of job and as a result, the level of crime, protest and violence have continued to escalate in different parts of the world. The deaths of loved ones due to the coronavirus has left many emotionally traumatized. Nigeria, like other African countries is not spared of the ravaging effects of the pandemic, even as the government take strict measures to contain the virus. No doubt, this is very challenging, but the country is capable of surmounting the virus with the needed help from her international partners and cooperation from the citizenry. But if we as a people, remain complacent and continue with business as usual, without taking measures to flatten the curve, the disease will escalate too quickly beyond our capacity to handle and our health system will be overwhelmed and may collapse eventually. We cannot therefore afford to be complacent in our response to containing the pandemic.
Impact of COVID 19 on the Aviation Industry in Nigeriaijtsrd
This paper is a timely examination of the novel Corona Virus Covid 19 that is currently ravaging the entire world. The main objective of this research is to study the impact of this global pandemic on the aviation sector in Nigeria. The methodology adopted is basically qualitative, explorative and analytical in nature, involving the use of secondary data via journal publications, government official documents, health authorities’ data and internet materials. This due to the fact that the virus is novel and very recent. The study found out that the Covid 19 pandemic has thrown the entire global economic, political and social systems into turmoil. The Nigerian economy and aviation sector in particular, has been in a meltdown, which had been thrown into a huge crisis. Some of the negative impacts of the scourge on the Nigerian aviation industry include closure of airports and banning of flights, increasing industry debt profile, negative impact on tourism, increased competitive pricing and severe loss of jobs. In terms of future prognosis, it will be quite a while before the sector recovers and whenever it re opens, the most immediate visible change will be social distancing, touch less travel with passengers needing to be fit to travel. The turnaround time for local and international travels will increase as aircraft will be need to sanitize each time the planes land. Furthermore, there will be increased movement towards the digital space and most of the flight operations will be on digital platforms. Siyan, Peter | Adegoriola, Adewale E | Agunbiade, Olabode "Impact of COVID-19 on the Aviation Industry in Nigeria" Published in International Journal of Trend in Scientific Research and Development (ijtsrd), ISSN: 2456-6470, Volume-4 | Issue-5 , August 2020, URL: https://www.ijtsrd.com/papers/ijtsrd31787.pdf Paper Url :https://www.ijtsrd.com/economics/other/31787/impact-of-covid19-on-the-aviation-industry-in-nigeria/siyan-peter
Cooperative A Positive Growth Driver in a Pandemic Economyijtsrd
The pandemic economy is an economy inflicted with deadly disease or plague such as the corona virus disease 2019 COVID 19 . The economy is characterized with setbacks in social and economic activities including deaths as a result of the deadly disease. This study therefore examined the COVID 19 Pandemic its meaning, origin and the need to overcome the pandemic. The paper described how global, regional and national cooperation can help overcome the pandemic using cooperative as a platform. However, considering the economic, social and environmental challenges of the pandemic, this paper contends that the cooperative model of enterprise has in recent time proven to be more sustainable and reliable platform for social and economic transformation in the Nigerian economy in the pandemic era for some obvious reasons The paper posited that the government and donor agencies have relied on cooperative in fighting hunger and poverty. The cooperative has also been relied upon for achieving national food security programme. Institutions both educational and other agencies are setting up one form of cooperative organization or the other for solving their social and economic needs. Research has also shown that many micro business owners rely on cooperative group membership for their business growth. Today, the cooperative ideals are spread across all sectors of the economy even without much publicity. Most importantly the pandemic made thousands if not millions of people informal members of cooperative organization in an effort to survive the vicious attack of the pandemic. The paper concludes that it is imperative that a clear cut cooperative sector that will serve as a professional and institutional base for cooperative growth and development in Nigeria be established. Anigbogu, Theresa Ukamaka | Uzochukwu, Lebechukwu David | Akwaekwe, Christian Ikechukwu "Cooperative: A Positive Growth Driver in a Pandemic Economy" Published in International Journal of Trend in Scientific Research and Development (ijtsrd), ISSN: 2456-6470, Volume-6 | Issue-4 , June 2022, URL: https://www.ijtsrd.com/papers/ijtsrd50361.pdf Paper URL: https://www.ijtsrd.com/economics/other/50361/cooperative-a-positive-growth-driver-in-a-pandemic-economy/anigbogu-theresa-ukamaka
WHO African Region - Africa marks six months on 14 August since COVID-19 was first detected on the continent. While the virus has raced through many other regions of the world, the pandemic’s evolution on the African continent has been different.
West Africa Ebola Outbreak 1
West Africa Ebola Outbreak
Joseph Toole
Principles of Epidemiology PHE 5015 S01
12 Jun 2016
Introduction
Around two years ago, there was worldwide uproar concerning Ebola. The outbreak had occurred in West Africa with individuals nations’ health departments stretched to the limit while trying to cope with the situation. Well wishing nations had to volunteer in terms of health practitioners and funds among other ways in order to assist the nations. Ebola is an infectious disease that is deadly discovered in Zaire in 1976. It is caused by Ebola virus which can be spread via contact with an infected person. Its spread it’s fast since contact with an infected person’s blood or body fluids. This paper will cover an overview of outbreak in 2014 in West Africa, observations, recommendations and conclusion.
Overview, Investigative methodology and rationale for the topic
The first outbreak of the epidemic was discovered in early 2014. It was reported in countries of West Africa namely: Sierra Lone, Guinea and Liberia. The three countries were the huge victims of the epidemic. Most of the victims of the outbreak died with a few survivors (CDC, 2016 n.d. - a). The reported symptoms among the victims were fatigue, fever, severe headaches, diarrhea, vomiting, abdominal pain and unexplained bleeding (CDC, 2016 n.d.-b). The symptoms are discovered roughly between 2 -21 days after infection. The methodology employed in order to determine the magnitude the outbreak encompassed different aspects. There was laboratory tests, study design and patients, data analysis and ethical considerations played a vital role. Study was carried out around the suspected victims. Lab tests were done via use of victim’s blood or oral swap. Ethical considerations were employed to determine the response of public health to the outbreak and contain it. Data analysis was vital in order to relate each case to a certain geographical location. Data from center for disease, World health Organization, European center for Disease prevention and control, National Institute of health will play a critical role in this paper since it will back up the facts presented. The rationale behind choosing the topic is to assist in comprehending the methods employed by epidemiologists in order to understand diseases in populations determine what disease is affecting the population and finally employ measures to treat as well as prevent its future occurrence.
Ebola in West Africa
Outbreaks in Africa have been reported as early as 2007. The ailment was previously known as Ebola hemorrhagic fever which is capable of affecting both humans and primates. It has a couple of species which include the Sudan virus, Reston virus, Bundibugyo virus, Tae Forest virus and Ebola virus. Reston is common in the monkey species. Few cases have been reported regarding the outbreak since it was discovered ranging from around 1-400 annually. For instance, in Gulu villag.
Containing the COVID 19 Pandemic in Nigeria A Reflection on Government Action...ijtsrd
The outbreak of the COVID 19 pandemic led to the lockdown of the global economy in the early part of the year 2020. In line with the measures recommended by the World Health Organization WHO , countries also introduced further mechanisms based on their respective unique environment to contain the virus. This paper reflected on the citizens’ reactions to government measures in containing the COVID 19 pandemic in Nigeria. Specifically, it reviewed the government’s actions towards containing the virus and how they influenced the citizens’ response. The study was qualitative and focused between March and September 2020. Relying on secondary data that were analyzed through content analysis, we triangulated the Persuasive Communication Theory and Resistance Theory to interrogate the governments actions and the citizens’ reactions. We argued that the governments approach towards containing the virus contributed to i the doubt on the existence of the virus in the country held by some of the citizens, ii the lack of strict observation of precautionary measures and safety regulations, iii the seeming non co operation between the government and the citizens in containing the virus. The implications of this relationship pose challenges for future epidemics, pandemics, and development in the country and could serve as a premise for further research. Vincent Chukwukadibia Onwughalu "Containing the COVID-19 Pandemic in Nigeria: A Reflection on Government Actions and Citizens Reactions" Published in International Journal of Trend in Scientific Research and Development (ijtsrd), ISSN: 2456-6470, Volume-4 | Issue-6 , October 2020, URL: https://www.ijtsrd.com/papers/ijtsrd35701.pdf Paper Url: https://www.ijtsrd.com/management/other/35701/containing-the-covid19-pandemic-in-nigeria-a-reflection-on-government-actions-and-citizens-reactions/vincent-chukwukadibia-onwughalu
Countdown to the 2030 Global Goals: A Bibliometric Analysis of the Research T...Olutosin Ademola Otekunrin
As we approach the deadline for achieving the United Nations’ 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which is less than a decade away, it is crucial for researchers and research institutions at both national and international levels to conduct rigorous scientific assessments of the progress made towards these goals. The assessment is of utmost importance as it will provide valuable insights and information to political leaders and other stakeholders, guiding their actions and efforts towards successfully attaining the SDGs by the year 2030. This study aimed at providing vivid descriptions of the SDG 2 – zero hunger-related research endeavour. It employed bibliometric analysis and geographical patterns of SDG 2-related publications extracted from Scopus database from 2015 to 2023. A total of 397 documents were extracted where Sustainability journal ranked 1st among the journal outlets of zero hunger-related publications. The publication of zero hunger-related documents grew from 1.5% in 2016 to 29.7% in 2022. Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) and Chinese Academy of Sciences were the top 2 institutions publishing zero hunger-related documents while the lead article was published by Journal of Cleaner Production with 128 citations. The funding sponsors of SDG 2-related publications were dominated by sponsors from developed countries (such as China, Belgium, United States, and United Kingdom) while no funding sponsors from developing countries were among the top 10. The United States and United Kingdom were the two most productive countries while only one African country (South Africa) made the list of top 10 countries publishing zero hunger-related documents. This study provided political leaders and key stakeholders with in-depth understanding of the SDG 2-related research activities and highlighted research funding and collaboration gaps facing the developing nations.
Investigating and Quantifying Food Insecurity in Nigeria: A Systematic Review Olutosin Ademola Otekunrin
Given the recent increase in the number of Nigerians estimated to be at risk of food insecurity, it is crucial to explore the array of tools used to quantify food insecurity (FI). This exploration will help determine the prevalence and severity of FI in Nigeria. This review explored the scope of FI research carried out in Nigeria to examine how the design was quantified. A systematic review was performed to compile the accessible Nigerian studies. Seventy-nine studies were reviewed. Eighteen used the Household Food Insecurity Access Scale module (HFIAS) to investigate FI status; thirteen used the recommended daily calorie requirement approach; twelve employed the Household Food Security Survey Module (HFSSM); ten used the food insecurity index (through household per capita food expenditure); seven used the Food Insecurity Experienced Scale (FIES); two used the Food Consumption Score (FCS); and the others employed less standardized or thorough approaches. Different prevalence levels and gravities of FI in the Nigerian populations were documented. The prevalence of FI varied from 12% to 100%, based on the instrument and demography being studied. In accordance with the findings of this review, the authors propose standardization of the FI instrument and highlight the need for a measurement tool that would be appropriate for the Nigerian setting. This will enable researchers to attain a comprehensive knowledge of the occurrence rate of FI in Nigeria, leading to improved food-and nutrition-sensitive policy development.
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Knowledge and Prevalence of HIV/Aids among Suya Vendors in Kafanchan of Jema’...IIJSRJournal
This study was carried out on knowledge and prevalence of hiv/aids among suya vendors in kafanchan of jema’a local government area of kaduna state. To achieve this objective, the researcher developed and administered a questionnaire on eighty respondents. The likert scale statistical and graphical method was used in testing the null hypothesis. From the study, It was observed that The society or public authority do not educate Suya Vendors about Hiv/Aids. Economic status and educational background among Suya Vendors do not determine their knowledge of Hiv/Aids. It was also discovered that parents, religious leaders or government responsible for Hiv/Aids among Suya Vendors. It was observed that that All Suya Vendors are not knowledgeable about their Hiv Status. It was also observed that Suya Vendors negligent in knowing their status. that Suya Vendors do not tell their sexual partners about their Hiv Status. That Suya Vendors have multiple sexual partners. Both the state and federal government should take on joint projects to combat AIDS at the border areas. Projects including training, counselling, public meeting and rallies may be undertaken for awareness-building to this effect. The government should set up blood testing centre across that will be easily accessible, so that the people at Kafanchan municipal areas can get free access to HIV/AIDS testing. Educational Programmes about safe sex should be provided to the illiterate mass. Radio, TV programmes, visual aids and multimedia on AIDS should be produced to augment their awareness level.
The outbreak and subsequent spread of COVID-19 to the West African sub-region have brought significant changes to the different aspects of our lives and grounded educational and socio-political and economic activities of ECOWAS member states. The pandemic has exposed the poor state of the health systems and shortage in medical supplies and protective gears to cope with the health emergency. In response, strict restrictions were put in place to curb the spread of the virus and these have drastically affected peoples’ lifestyles. However, there has been huge increase in the use of technology in business, education, religion and other activities as people adapt to the changing times in the sub-region. It is the argument of this paper that things cannot return to the way they were before the pandemic, but West African states must strategically plan for the Post COVID-19 era to survive the massive wave of unemployment, socio-economic meltdown and changes in lifestyle. The paper concluded that while the fight against the virus in the sub-region was not collective, post-pandemic recovery must be coordinated, strategically plannedamong member states. It was recommended that the governments should be flexible enough to retain the use of ICT and technology alongside the conventional ways of doing things in the post-pandemic era.
Covid resource india 20th april 2020 reportAkshay Kokala
A quick look at how other countries have tackled it and what we can learn from them.
Do read and share. If you would like to collaborate please write to us at contact@covidresource.in
Social, environmental factors seen behind Africa’s low COVID-19 casesSABC News
COVID-19 transmission in Africa has been marked by relatively fewer infections, which have been on the decline over the past two months, owing to a variety of socio-ecological factors as well as early and strong public health measures taken by governments across the region.
The Coronavirus Disease – 2019 (COVID-19) is officially now a pandemic and not just a public health emergency of international concern as previously labelled. Worldwide, the new coronavirus has infected more than 4.9 million people and leaving more than 300,000 people dead in 188 countries. As countries of the world get locked down in an effort to contain the widespread of the virus, experts are concern about the global impacts of the pandemic on individuals, countries and the world at large. Millions of people are currently under quarantine across the globe. Many countries have responded by proclaiming a public health emergency, closed their borders and restrict incoming flights from high risk countries. This has grossly affected the travel plan of many. Several international programs, conferences, workshops and sporting activities are either postponed or cancelled. As the number of confirmed cases continues to escalate across the globe, hospitals seems to be running out of medical supplies, hospital spaces and personnel. Health workers are being overwhelmed by the numbers of people requesting for testing and treatment. Many of such health workers have been infected with the coronavirus and even lost their lives since the fight against COVID-19 started. Public health experts are also concerned about the huge medical wastes coming from the hospitals at this time and the adverse effects associated with improper management of such medical wastes, both at the hospital and community levels. The pandemic has also impacted negatively on the global economy. There have been serious crises in the stock market, with gross fall in the price of crude oil resulting in inflation and economic hardship among the populace. Many are currently out of job and as a result, the level of crime, protest and violence have continued to escalate in different parts of the world. The deaths of loved ones due to the coronavirus has left many emotionally traumatized. Nigeria, like other African countries is not spared of the ravaging effects of the pandemic, even as the government take strict measures to contain the virus. No doubt, this is very challenging, but the country is capable of surmounting the virus with the needed help from her international partners and cooperation from the citizenry. But if we as a people, remain complacent and continue with business as usual, without taking measures to flatten the curve, the disease will escalate too quickly beyond our capacity to handle and our health system will be overwhelmed and may collapse eventually. We cannot therefore afford to be complacent in our response to containing the pandemic.
Impact of COVID 19 on the Aviation Industry in Nigeriaijtsrd
This paper is a timely examination of the novel Corona Virus Covid 19 that is currently ravaging the entire world. The main objective of this research is to study the impact of this global pandemic on the aviation sector in Nigeria. The methodology adopted is basically qualitative, explorative and analytical in nature, involving the use of secondary data via journal publications, government official documents, health authorities’ data and internet materials. This due to the fact that the virus is novel and very recent. The study found out that the Covid 19 pandemic has thrown the entire global economic, political and social systems into turmoil. The Nigerian economy and aviation sector in particular, has been in a meltdown, which had been thrown into a huge crisis. Some of the negative impacts of the scourge on the Nigerian aviation industry include closure of airports and banning of flights, increasing industry debt profile, negative impact on tourism, increased competitive pricing and severe loss of jobs. In terms of future prognosis, it will be quite a while before the sector recovers and whenever it re opens, the most immediate visible change will be social distancing, touch less travel with passengers needing to be fit to travel. The turnaround time for local and international travels will increase as aircraft will be need to sanitize each time the planes land. Furthermore, there will be increased movement towards the digital space and most of the flight operations will be on digital platforms. Siyan, Peter | Adegoriola, Adewale E | Agunbiade, Olabode "Impact of COVID-19 on the Aviation Industry in Nigeria" Published in International Journal of Trend in Scientific Research and Development (ijtsrd), ISSN: 2456-6470, Volume-4 | Issue-5 , August 2020, URL: https://www.ijtsrd.com/papers/ijtsrd31787.pdf Paper Url :https://www.ijtsrd.com/economics/other/31787/impact-of-covid19-on-the-aviation-industry-in-nigeria/siyan-peter
Cooperative A Positive Growth Driver in a Pandemic Economyijtsrd
The pandemic economy is an economy inflicted with deadly disease or plague such as the corona virus disease 2019 COVID 19 . The economy is characterized with setbacks in social and economic activities including deaths as a result of the deadly disease. This study therefore examined the COVID 19 Pandemic its meaning, origin and the need to overcome the pandemic. The paper described how global, regional and national cooperation can help overcome the pandemic using cooperative as a platform. However, considering the economic, social and environmental challenges of the pandemic, this paper contends that the cooperative model of enterprise has in recent time proven to be more sustainable and reliable platform for social and economic transformation in the Nigerian economy in the pandemic era for some obvious reasons The paper posited that the government and donor agencies have relied on cooperative in fighting hunger and poverty. The cooperative has also been relied upon for achieving national food security programme. Institutions both educational and other agencies are setting up one form of cooperative organization or the other for solving their social and economic needs. Research has also shown that many micro business owners rely on cooperative group membership for their business growth. Today, the cooperative ideals are spread across all sectors of the economy even without much publicity. Most importantly the pandemic made thousands if not millions of people informal members of cooperative organization in an effort to survive the vicious attack of the pandemic. The paper concludes that it is imperative that a clear cut cooperative sector that will serve as a professional and institutional base for cooperative growth and development in Nigeria be established. Anigbogu, Theresa Ukamaka | Uzochukwu, Lebechukwu David | Akwaekwe, Christian Ikechukwu "Cooperative: A Positive Growth Driver in a Pandemic Economy" Published in International Journal of Trend in Scientific Research and Development (ijtsrd), ISSN: 2456-6470, Volume-6 | Issue-4 , June 2022, URL: https://www.ijtsrd.com/papers/ijtsrd50361.pdf Paper URL: https://www.ijtsrd.com/economics/other/50361/cooperative-a-positive-growth-driver-in-a-pandemic-economy/anigbogu-theresa-ukamaka
WHO African Region - Africa marks six months on 14 August since COVID-19 was first detected on the continent. While the virus has raced through many other regions of the world, the pandemic’s evolution on the African continent has been different.
West Africa Ebola Outbreak 1
West Africa Ebola Outbreak
Joseph Toole
Principles of Epidemiology PHE 5015 S01
12 Jun 2016
Introduction
Around two years ago, there was worldwide uproar concerning Ebola. The outbreak had occurred in West Africa with individuals nations’ health departments stretched to the limit while trying to cope with the situation. Well wishing nations had to volunteer in terms of health practitioners and funds among other ways in order to assist the nations. Ebola is an infectious disease that is deadly discovered in Zaire in 1976. It is caused by Ebola virus which can be spread via contact with an infected person. Its spread it’s fast since contact with an infected person’s blood or body fluids. This paper will cover an overview of outbreak in 2014 in West Africa, observations, recommendations and conclusion.
Overview, Investigative methodology and rationale for the topic
The first outbreak of the epidemic was discovered in early 2014. It was reported in countries of West Africa namely: Sierra Lone, Guinea and Liberia. The three countries were the huge victims of the epidemic. Most of the victims of the outbreak died with a few survivors (CDC, 2016 n.d. - a). The reported symptoms among the victims were fatigue, fever, severe headaches, diarrhea, vomiting, abdominal pain and unexplained bleeding (CDC, 2016 n.d.-b). The symptoms are discovered roughly between 2 -21 days after infection. The methodology employed in order to determine the magnitude the outbreak encompassed different aspects. There was laboratory tests, study design and patients, data analysis and ethical considerations played a vital role. Study was carried out around the suspected victims. Lab tests were done via use of victim’s blood or oral swap. Ethical considerations were employed to determine the response of public health to the outbreak and contain it. Data analysis was vital in order to relate each case to a certain geographical location. Data from center for disease, World health Organization, European center for Disease prevention and control, National Institute of health will play a critical role in this paper since it will back up the facts presented. The rationale behind choosing the topic is to assist in comprehending the methods employed by epidemiologists in order to understand diseases in populations determine what disease is affecting the population and finally employ measures to treat as well as prevent its future occurrence.
Ebola in West Africa
Outbreaks in Africa have been reported as early as 2007. The ailment was previously known as Ebola hemorrhagic fever which is capable of affecting both humans and primates. It has a couple of species which include the Sudan virus, Reston virus, Bundibugyo virus, Tae Forest virus and Ebola virus. Reston is common in the monkey species. Few cases have been reported regarding the outbreak since it was discovered ranging from around 1-400 annually. For instance, in Gulu villag.
Containing the COVID 19 Pandemic in Nigeria A Reflection on Government Action...ijtsrd
The outbreak of the COVID 19 pandemic led to the lockdown of the global economy in the early part of the year 2020. In line with the measures recommended by the World Health Organization WHO , countries also introduced further mechanisms based on their respective unique environment to contain the virus. This paper reflected on the citizens’ reactions to government measures in containing the COVID 19 pandemic in Nigeria. Specifically, it reviewed the government’s actions towards containing the virus and how they influenced the citizens’ response. The study was qualitative and focused between March and September 2020. Relying on secondary data that were analyzed through content analysis, we triangulated the Persuasive Communication Theory and Resistance Theory to interrogate the governments actions and the citizens’ reactions. We argued that the governments approach towards containing the virus contributed to i the doubt on the existence of the virus in the country held by some of the citizens, ii the lack of strict observation of precautionary measures and safety regulations, iii the seeming non co operation between the government and the citizens in containing the virus. The implications of this relationship pose challenges for future epidemics, pandemics, and development in the country and could serve as a premise for further research. Vincent Chukwukadibia Onwughalu "Containing the COVID-19 Pandemic in Nigeria: A Reflection on Government Actions and Citizens Reactions" Published in International Journal of Trend in Scientific Research and Development (ijtsrd), ISSN: 2456-6470, Volume-4 | Issue-6 , October 2020, URL: https://www.ijtsrd.com/papers/ijtsrd35701.pdf Paper Url: https://www.ijtsrd.com/management/other/35701/containing-the-covid19-pandemic-in-nigeria-a-reflection-on-government-actions-and-citizens-reactions/vincent-chukwukadibia-onwughalu
Similar to COVID-19 in Nigeria: Why continuous spike in cases? (20)
Countdown to the 2030 Global Goals: A Bibliometric Analysis of the Research T...Olutosin Ademola Otekunrin
As we approach the deadline for achieving the United Nations’ 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which is less than a decade away, it is crucial for researchers and research institutions at both national and international levels to conduct rigorous scientific assessments of the progress made towards these goals. The assessment is of utmost importance as it will provide valuable insights and information to political leaders and other stakeholders, guiding their actions and efforts towards successfully attaining the SDGs by the year 2030. This study aimed at providing vivid descriptions of the SDG 2 – zero hunger-related research endeavour. It employed bibliometric analysis and geographical patterns of SDG 2-related publications extracted from Scopus database from 2015 to 2023. A total of 397 documents were extracted where Sustainability journal ranked 1st among the journal outlets of zero hunger-related publications. The publication of zero hunger-related documents grew from 1.5% in 2016 to 29.7% in 2022. Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) and Chinese Academy of Sciences were the top 2 institutions publishing zero hunger-related documents while the lead article was published by Journal of Cleaner Production with 128 citations. The funding sponsors of SDG 2-related publications were dominated by sponsors from developed countries (such as China, Belgium, United States, and United Kingdom) while no funding sponsors from developing countries were among the top 10. The United States and United Kingdom were the two most productive countries while only one African country (South Africa) made the list of top 10 countries publishing zero hunger-related documents. This study provided political leaders and key stakeholders with in-depth understanding of the SDG 2-related research activities and highlighted research funding and collaboration gaps facing the developing nations.
Investigating and Quantifying Food Insecurity in Nigeria: A Systematic Review Olutosin Ademola Otekunrin
Given the recent increase in the number of Nigerians estimated to be at risk of food insecurity, it is crucial to explore the array of tools used to quantify food insecurity (FI). This exploration will help determine the prevalence and severity of FI in Nigeria. This review explored the scope of FI research carried out in Nigeria to examine how the design was quantified. A systematic review was performed to compile the accessible Nigerian studies. Seventy-nine studies were reviewed. Eighteen used the Household Food Insecurity Access Scale module (HFIAS) to investigate FI status; thirteen used the recommended daily calorie requirement approach; twelve employed the Household Food Security Survey Module (HFSSM); ten used the food insecurity index (through household per capita food expenditure); seven used the Food Insecurity Experienced Scale (FIES); two used the Food Consumption Score (FCS); and the others employed less standardized or thorough approaches. Different prevalence levels and gravities of FI in the Nigerian populations were documented. The prevalence of FI varied from 12% to 100%, based on the instrument and demography being studied. In accordance with the findings of this review, the authors propose standardization of the FI instrument and highlight the need for a measurement tool that would be appropriate for the Nigerian setting. This will enable researchers to attain a comprehensive knowledge of the occurrence rate of FI in Nigeria, leading to improved food-and nutrition-sensitive policy development.
Dietary diversity, nutritional status, and agricultural commercialization: ev...Olutosin Ademola Otekunrin
Access tohealthyandaffordablediethingedontherealizationofSustainableDevelopmentGoal2,higherproductivity and, economic prosperity while it is difficult for a poorly nourished people to achieve optimum production of goods and services. This study assessed whether dietary diversity (DD) and nutritional status of adult men are associated with crop commercialization index (CCI) levels of agricultural households in two states of Southwestern Nigeria. This research utilized 352 farm households, comprising 277 adult malemembers. The individualversionofdietary diversity score (DDS)of9foodgroupswasusedtocalculateadultmen’sDDSovera24-hrecall.Anthropometricdatawas obtained using bodymass index(BMI)whileCCIlevelswas estimatedfor eachagricultural household. Logistic regression and ordered logit models were used to examine the determinants of adult men’s dietary diversity and nutritional status respectively. Hundred percent of adult men consumed starchy staples, with 11.2% consuming egg, 5.8% milk andmilkproducts and 0.4%consumingorganmeatover24-hrecall. Adultmen ofCCI2andCCI4agriculturalhouseholds recorded overweight prevalence of >20% in Ogun state while the association between DDS and CCI was statistically insignificant suggesting that being a member of any of the CCI households may not guarantee the consumption of healthy diets among adult men. From Logit regression analysis, it is more likely for adult men with higher farm size toattaintheminimumDDSof4foodgroupsthanthosewithsmallersizeoffarmland(OR=4.78;95%CI:1.94,11.76; p =0.001). The age, farm experience, and cassava marketing experience were positively related to the likelihood of obtaining the minimum DDS. For adult men to achieve a healthy diet, their diet pattern must incorporate a more diversifiedintakeoffoodfromdifferentfoodgroupscapableofimprovingtheirnutritionalstatus.Thisstudyemphasized the need for relevant stakeholders to provide adequate nutrition knowledge intervention programmes capable of improving the diets and nutrition of adult men and other members of farm households.
Measuring the economic performance of smallholder organic maize farms; Implic...Olutosin Ademola Otekunrin
The use of chemical inputs in conventional agriculture is associated with some health and environmental issues. This led to a call for more sustainable and environmentally friendly agriculture without health issues. However, there is low participation in organic farming in Nigeria, which could be linked to less knowledge about its profitability. The study investigated smallholder organic maize farming profitability in Northern Nigeria. We employed descriptive statistics, profitability analysis, and a multiple regression model to analyse data collected from 480 maize farmers. The results revealed that organic maize farmers had a gross profit of USD 604.81 per hectare, a 0.46 profit ratio, a 0.54 gross ratio, a 0.32 operating ratio, a benefit-cost ratio of 1.85, and a 0.85 return on capital invested. Thus, organic maize farming is a productive and profitable venture. Organic manure, compost manure, farm size, selling price, cooperative membership, extension contact, access to credit, irrigation, education, and major occupation were factors that enhanced organic maize farming’s net profit. However, seed and transportation costs negatively influenced organic maize farming's net profit. Therefore, government and development agencies must intervene to make organic farming more sustainable and profitable by subsidizing seed costs and providing f inancial assistance to farmers.
Dietary diversity, nutritional status, and agricultural commercialization: ev...Olutosin Ademola Otekunrin
Access tohealthyandaffordablediethingedontherealizationofSustainableDevelopmentGoal2,higherproductivity and, economic prosperity while it is difficult for a poorly nourished people to achieve optimum production of goods and services. This study assessed whether dietary diversity (DD) and nutritional status of adult men are associated with crop commercialization index (CCI) levels of agricultural households in two states of Southwestern Nigeria. This research utilized 352 farm households, comprising 277 adult malemembers. The individualversionofdietary diversity score (DDS)of9foodgroupswasusedtocalculateadultmen’sDDSovera24-hrecall.Anthropometricdatawas obtained using bodymass index(BMI)whileCCIlevelswas estimatedfor eachagricultural household. Logistic regression and ordered logit models were used to examine the determinants of adult men’s dietary diversity and nutritional status respectively. Hundred percent of adult men consumed starchy staples, with 11.2% consuming egg, 5.8% milk andmilkproducts and 0.4%consumingorganmeatover24-hrecall. Adultmen ofCCI2andCCI4agriculturalhouseholds recorded overweight prevalence of >20% in Ogun state while the association between DDS and CCI was statistically insignificant suggesting that being a member of any of the CCI households may not guarantee the consumption of healthy diets among adult men. From Logit regression analysis, it is more likely for adult men with higher farm size toattaintheminimumDDSof4foodgroupsthanthosewithsmallersizeoffarmland(OR=4.78;95%CI:1.94,11.76; p =0.001). The age, farm experience, and cassava marketing experience were positively related to the likelihood of obtaining the minimum DDS. For adult men to achieve a healthy diet, their diet pattern must incorporate a more diversifiedintakeoffoodfromdifferentfoodgroupscapableofimprovingtheirnutritionalstatus.Thisstudyemphasized the need for relevant stakeholders to provide adequate nutrition knowledge intervention programmes capable of improving the diets and nutrition of adult men and other members of farm households.
Concerns about food safety issues have put considerable pressure on pesticide producers in Europe and worldwide to reduce the levels of pesticide residues in food. The aim of this work is to assess the use of traditional pesticides and their effects, to present perspectives in this field and to identi-fy regulatory needs for their use and implementation. The work is based on a systematic review in which the research problem was defined, primary sources were selected and critically appraised, data were collected, analysed and evaluated, and conclusions were formulated. The state of the pesticide market and the current legal requirements for risk assessment in relation to exposure to chemical sub-stances were reviewed. Food safety issues are presented through the prism of pesticide residues in food. Their widespread use and considerable persistence have made them ubiquitous in the natural environment and their residues pose a threat to the environment and to human and animal health. It has been shown that the most important factor influencing the search for new tools to control diseas-es and pests of crops is the progressive development of resistance of these populations to currently used pesticides. Various alternatives to the phasing out of synthetic pesticides in the form of natural products are therefore being developed to support the development of the natural products market.
Dietary diversity, nutritional status, and agricultural commercialization: ev...Olutosin Ademola Otekunrin
Access to healthy and affordable diet hinged on the realization of Sustainable Development Goal 2, higher productivity and, economic prosperity while it is difficult for a poorly nourished people to achieve optimum production of goods and services. This study assessed whether dietary diversity (DD) and nutritional status of adult men are associated with crop commercialization index (CCI) levels of agricultural households in two states of Southwestern Nigeria. This research utilized 352 farm households, comprising 277 adult male members. The individual version of dietary diversity score (DDS) of 9 food groups was used to calculate adult men’s DDS over a 24-h recall. Anthropometric data was obtained using body mass index (BMI) while CCI levels was estimated for each agricultural household. Logistic regression and ordered logit models were used to examine the determinants of adult men’s dietary diversity and nutritional status respectively. Hundred percent of adult men consumed starchy staples, with 11.2% consuming egg, 5.8% milk and milk products and 0.4% consuming organ meat over 24-h recall. Adult men of CCI 2 and CCI 4 agricultural households recorded overweight prevalence of >20% in Ogun state while the association between DDS and CCI was statistically insignificant suggesting that being a member of any of the CCI households may not guarantee the consumption of healthy diets among adult men. From Logit regression analysis, it is more likely for adult men with higher farm size to attain the minimum DDS of 4 food groups than those with smaller size of farmland (OR = 4.78; 95% CI: 1.94, 11.76; p = 0.001). The age, farm experience, and cassava marketing experience were positively related to the likelihood of obtaining the minimum DDS. For adult men to achieve a healthy diet, their diet pattern must incorporate a more diversified intake of food from different food groups capable of improving their nutritional status. This study emphasized the need for relevant stakeholders to provide adequate nutrition knowledge intervention programmes capable of improving the diets and nutrition of adult men and other members of farm households.
COVID-19 Pandemic impacted food security and caused psychosocial stress in so...Olutosin Ademola Otekunrin
The COVID-19 disease has infected many countries, causing generalized impacts on different income categories. We carried out a survey among households (n = 412) representing different income groups in Nigeria. We used validated food insecurity experience and socio-psychologic tools. Data obtained were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. The earning capacities of the respondents ranged from 145 USD/month for low-income earners to 1945 USD/month for high-income earners. A total of 173 households (42%) ran out of food during the COVID-19 pandemic. All categories of households experienced increasing dependency on the general public and a perception of increasing insecurity, with the high-income earners experiencing the greatest shift. In addition, increasing levels of anger and irritation were experienced among all categories. Of the socio-demographic variables, only gender, educational level of the household head, work hours per day, and family income based on society class were associated (p < 0.05) with food security and hunger due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Although psychological stress was observed to be greater in the low-income earning group, household heads with medium and high family income were more likely to have satisfactory experiences regarding food security and hunger. It is recommended that socio-economic groups should be mapped and support systems should target each group to provide the needed support in terms of health, social, economic, and mental wellness.
Exploring dietary diversity, nutritional status of adolescents amongfarmhouse...Olutosin Ademola Otekunrin
Purpose –This study aims to explore dietary diversity (DD) and nutritional status of adolescents among rural farm households in Southwestern Nigeria. It analyses whether higher commercialization levels of farm households translate to better nutrition. Design/methodology/approach –This study was conducted in Ogun and Oyo States of Southwestern Nigeria, using primary data from352 farm households with a total of 160 adolescent members. The individual version of dietary diversity score (DDS) of nine food groups was used to calculate adolescent DDS over a 24-h recall period. World Health Organization AnthroPlus software was used in analyzing adolescents’ anthropometric data (height-for-age z-score and body mass index-for-age z-score) while household crop commercialization index (CCI) was estimated for each farm household. Separate logit models were used to examine thedriversof adolescents’ DDandmalnutrition. Findings –Thestudyfindings indicated that 100% of the adolescents consumed starchy staples while 0%, 3.1% and 12.5% consumed organ meat, milk/milk products and eggs, respectively. Results revealed that 74.1%and21.2%ofboyswerestuntedandthinwhiletheprevalenceinadolescent girls was 50.7%and9.3%, respectively. Prevalence of stunting was found to be very high (60%–83%) in all the four CCI levels’ households indicating that belonging to highly commercialized households (CCI 3–4) may not necessarily translate to better nutrition of adolescent members. Food expenditure (p < 0.01) and access to piped water (p <0.01) negatively influenced adolescents’ stunting mainly because of lower expenditure on food items and lower percent of household having access to piped water, respectively, while education (p < 0.01) had positive effects on adolescents’ DD. Originality/value –Previous studies have contributed to the body of knowledge concerning the link between agricultural commercialization and nutrition using under-five children of the households. However, to the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first study that investigated the influence of CCI on DDSandnutritional status of adolescent members of farm households in Nigeria. This study fills this existing knowledge gap in investigating adolescents’ DD and malnutrition among smallholder farm households.
Assessing agricultural commercialization and rural infrastructure development...Olutosin Ademola Otekunrin
This study assessed agricultural commercialization and rural infrastructure development of smallholder cassava farmers in rural Southwestern Nigeria. The study was conducted in Nigeria with cross-sectional data collected from 352 smallholder cassava farmers. Crop commercialization index (CCI) was used to compute each farmer’s CCI and categorized into four levels while ordered logit model was employed to analyze the determinants of agricultural commercialization of cassava farmers in the study areas. Availability of some important rural infrastructures were assessed across cassava farmers’ commercialization levels. The results revealed that 13.1 % of cassava farmers did not participate in the sale of cassava roots while 86.9 % of them participated actively in the output market. T he mean and maximum CCI in the study areas was 59.1 and 95.5 respectively. The results also showed that less than 40 % and 20 % of cassava farmers in all commercialization levels had access to electricity and piped water respectively. The ordered logit regression analysis indicated that age, transport cost, cassava marketing experience, and distance to market were among the determinants of agricultural commercialization. Therefore, stakeholders should expedite policy actions capable of promoting rural infrastructure development that will enhance agricultural production, marketing and improve the quality of life of rural farming communities.
Exploring women's preferences for attributes of long-acting reversible contr...Olutosin Ademola Otekunrin
There is low LARC uptake in Nigeria and not much is documented about Nigerian women‟s preferences for these products and how these preferences affect women‟s choices. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to provide empirical evidence on the decision-making behavior of Nigerian women regarding LARCs. Three hypothetical LARCs were presented. Informed by results obtained from the review of relevant literature and focus group discussion held with selected family planning services providers, the identified attributes were effect on weight, cost, LARC effectiveness and effect on bleeding patterns, each at three levels. A D-optimal design was used to construct nine choice sets. An additional choice set was included to conduct the testretest stability test. The choice sets and other socio-demographic questions formed the discrete choice experiment questionnaire. A random sample of 150 eligible women was selected from women who enrolled and attended family planning clinics in public healthcare facilities in Ibadan, Nigeria through a three-stage sampling technique. Mixed logit modelling was used to obtain estimates of the parameters and willingness to pay (WTP) for each attribute was calculated. The test-retest stability result showed that 76.7% of the respondents responded in a consistent and rational manner. The women preferred LARCs that have no effect on their weights compared to LARCs that cause either slight weight loss or gain. Also, they preferred LARCs that offer 1/1000 level of effectiveness in a year. The most preferred attribute level, „women experience infrequent bleeding‟, increases WTP by NGN 13,984.584 (USD 33.68) while the least preferred level, „women experience frequent/prolonged bleeding‟, has a negative mean WTP (-NGN 19,598.378 (-USD 47.20)) indicating dispreference for the level. Furthermore, women derived higher utilities from very cheap LARCs. Evidence-based information on women‟s preferences regarding LARC usage would help policymakers in the deployment of strategies that would ensure that preferred LARCs are procured and made readily available to women.
Nutrition Outcomes of Under-five Children of Smallholder Farm Households: Do ...Olutosin Ademola Otekunrin
The study investigated the nutritional status of under-five children of farm households. The study utilized primary data from 352 farm households with 140 under-five children. Household crop commercialization index (CCI) was used to estimate cassava farm household crop sale ratio and categorize the households into four commercialization levels while WHO Anthro software was employed to analyze under-five children anthropometric indices such as weight-for-age z-score (WAZ), height-for-age z-score (HAZ) and weight-for-height z-score (WHZ). Logit regression model (LRM) was used to examine the drivers of under-five children’s nutritional status of farm households. The study found that 42.9%, 7.9% and 3.6% of the children are stunted, underweight and wasted respectively. The highest stunting level was recorded in zero level households (CCI 1). Although, some higher CCI households (medium-high and very-high level) recorded increased percent of stunted children. This revealed that being a member of low or high-level commercialization households may not guarantee better nutritional status of young children of farm households. The results of LRM indicated that the predictors of children nutritional status were child’s age, farm size, access to electricity, healthcare and commercialization variables. Moreover, weak positive and negative relationships exist between CCI and children’s nutrition outcomes as measured by the z-scores. The study recommended maternal nutrition-sensitive education intervention that can improve nutrition knowledge of mothers and provision of infrastructure that enhance increased farm production and promote healthy living among farm households.
Assessing agricultural commercialization and rural infrastructure development...Olutosin Ademola Otekunrin
Abstract: This study assessed agricultural commercialization and rural infrastructure development of smallholder cassava farmers in rural Southwestern Nigeria. The study was conducted in Nigeria with cross-sectional data collected from 352 smallholder cassava farmers. Crop commercialization index (CCI) was used to compute each farmer’s CCI and categorized into four levels while ordered logit model was employed to analyze the determinants of agricultural commercialization of cassava farmers in the study areas. Availability of some important rural infrastructures were assessed across cassava farmers’ commercialization levels. The results revealed that 13.1 % of cassava farmers did not participate in the sale of cassava roots while 86.9 % of them participated actively in the output market. T he mean and maximum CCI in the study areas was 59.1 and 95.5 respectively. The results also showed that less than 40 % and 20 % of cassava farmers in all commercialization levels had access to electricity and piped water respectively. The ordered logit regression analysis indicated that age, transport cost, cassava marketing experience, and distance to market were among the determinants of agricultural commercialization. Therefore, stakeholders should expedite policy actions capable of promoting rural infrastructure development that will enhance agricultural production, marketing and improve the quality of life of rural farming communities.
How far has Africa gone in achieving zero hunger target? evidence from Nigeria Olutosin Ademola Otekunrin
Sustainable Development Goal 2 is hinged on achieving zero hunger, worldwide, by the year 2030. Many developing countries, especially African countries, are faced with extreme hunger often caused or compounded by bad governance, conflicts and climate change. In this paper, we review patterns of Global Hunger Index scores across Africa from 2000 to 2018 noting advances and setbacks in the fight against hunger in relation to the underlying causes of hunger in these nations, using Nigeria, the poverty capital of the world, as a case study. We also review selected policies of the Nigerian government and development partners aimed at reducing hunger in Nigeria and proffer solutions that can help actualise the target of zero hunger by 2030.
Nutrition outcomes of under-five children of smallholder farm households: do ...Olutosin Ademola Otekunrin
The study investigated the nutritional status of under-five children of farm households. The study utilized primary data from 352 farm households with 140 under-five children. Household crop commercialization index (CCI) was used to estimate cassava farm household crop sale ratio and categorize the households into four commercialization levels while WHO Anthro software was employed to analyze under-five children anthropometric indices such as weight-for-age z-score (WAZ), height-for-age z-score (HAZ) and weight-for-height z-score (WHZ). Logit regression model (LRM) was used to examine the drivers of under-five children’s nutritional status of farm households. The study found that 42.9%, 7.9% and 3.6% of the children are stunted, underweight and wasted respectively. The highest stunting level was recorded in zero level households (CCI 1). Although, some higher CCI households (medium-high and very-high level) recorded increased percent of stunted children. This revealed that being a member of low or high-level commercialization households may not guarantee better nutritional status of young children of farm households. The results of LRM indicated that the predictors of children nutritional status were child’s age, farm size, access to electricity, healthcare and commercialization variables. Moreover, weak positive and negative relationships exist between CCI and children’s nutrition outcomes as measured by the z-scores. The study recommended maternal nutrition-sensitive education intervention that can improve nutrition knowledge of mothers and provision of infrastructure that enhance increased farm production and promote healthy living among farm households.
Dietary Diversity Choices of Women: Evidence from Cassava Farming Households ...Olutosin Ademola Otekunrin
In this study, we examined dietary diversity of women in cassava farming households of South-
West, Nigeria. Multi-stage sampling procedure was used to collect data on 352 farming households comprising 212 women members (158 women of child-bearing age (20-49 years) and 54 women
above 49 years) between December 2019 and March 2020 in Oyo and Ogun States of South-
West, Nigeria. The Minimum Dietary Diversity for Women (MDD-W) questionnaire was adapted and used to obtain the dietary diversity scores (DDS) of women of child bearing age over a 24-hour recall period. The individual version of the Household dietary diversity questionnaire was adapted and used to obtain the DDS of women above 49 years. Separate logistic regression models were
fitted to determine the influence of selected variables on the dietary diversity of the two categories of women. Our results show that more than half of the women (55.1%) in the child-bearing
category (20-49 years) did not attain the minimum score of 5 out of 10 food groups. In the older
women category (> 49 years), more than half of the women (68.5%) met the required 4 or more food groups. In the child-bearing age category, the odds of attaining the minimum dietary diversity
level were 0.04% smaller with an additional increase in transport cost. Also, women who had
female household heads were approximately three times more likely to attain the minimum dietary diversity level than women who did not have female household heads. In the older women category, the odds of attaining the minimum dietary diversity level were 98.9% smaller for women
with good road condition than for women with poor road condition. These results are useful for
evidence-based decision making that can have positive impact on the lives of women in cassava
farming households.
Assessing the determinants of agricultural commercialization and challenges c...Olutosin Ademola Otekunrin
This study assesses the agricultural commercialization levels, determinants, and challenges confronting smallholder cassava farmers in Oyo State, Nigeria. This study was conducted in Oyo State, Nigeria using cross-sectional data from 211 smallholder cassava farmers and employing multi-stage sampling procedures. Descriptive statistics, Crop Commercialization Index (CCI), and Ordered Logit Model (OLM) were used to analyze the data collected. The results revealed that 83.9% of the cassava farmers participated in the commercialization of their cassava roots while the remaining farmers were non-participants. The greatest challenge faced by the cassava farmers in the study area was the incessant attacks by the Fulani herdsmen (destroying growing cassava on the farm) while other challenges included cassava cyclical gluts and poor access road. Moreover, OLM revealed that age, farm size, cassava marketing experience and distance to market had significant influence on commercialization levels of cassava farmers. However, in order to enhance increased commercialization levels of cassava farmers and peaceful coexistence in the study area, policies and intervention programmes that will facilitate rural infrastructure development and proffer lasting solution to the farmers-herders crisis should be given upmost priority.
Biological properties and polyphenols content of Algerian Cistus salviifolius...Olutosin Ademola Otekunrin
This study evaluated the in vitro antioxidant properties, antibacterial and antifungal activities and in vivo anti-inflammatory properties, and identifying the phenolic compounds in Cistus salviifolius. The methanolic leaf extract showed the highest antioxidant activity with 6.1±1.60 μg/ml IC50 value using DPPH and 55.5±0.20 μg/ml using Reducing Power Activity. The study revealed that the butanolic leaf extract and
the aqueous leaf infusion exhibited the strongest growth-inhibiting effect against all Gram positive and Gram negative strains tested, respectively, whereas the methanolic leaf extract showed the strongest antifungal activity against the yeast tested. The MIC value for the butanolic leaf extract was 4 mg/ml against Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus subtilis and Escherichia coli. The pharmacotoxicological tests proved the safety of the aqueous leaf infusion, which exhibit a moderate anti-inflammatory effect, with a significant inhibition of the oedema development equal to 44.7% compared to 59.3% for the reference product diclofenac
sodium. Methanolic extracts of the leaf and flower buds showed varied contents of polyphenols, flavonoids, and hydrolysable tannins; which were 228.411.4 mg GAE/g, 34.20.6 mg QE/g, and 36.92.6 mg TAE/g of
the dry weight for leaves; and 241.15.4 mg GAE/g, 47.64.5 mg QE/g, and 22.01.3 mg TAE/g of the dry weight for flower buds, respectively. Analysis of the ethereal and butanolic leaf extracts using Reversed Phase High Performance Liquid Chromatographic Method coupled with a Photodiode-Array Detector identified thirteen phenolic compounds, including ascorbic acid, vanillic acid, gallic acid, quercetin, and orientin.
Plant-derived stimulants and psychoactive substances – social and economic as...Olutosin Ademola Otekunrin
An analysis of the drug market was carried out, in the context of changing patterns of drug use, cultural and social factors as well as economic and links with wider crime. The drug markets remain one of the most profitable areas of economic activity of organized criminal groups. The impact of the drug market on society is enormous and goes beyond the immediate effects of their use. It involves participation in other types of criminal activity and terrorism, impact on legally operating companies and the economy, the burden on public institutions and corruption, as well as the impact on the whole society and its health. Globalization and technological development has accelerated the pace of changes taking place on the drug market. Geographically, this type of activity focuses on several existing for a long time, but also on new markets. Changes in this area pose a challenge for entities undertaking actions in response to problems related to the functioning of the drug markets, including those indirectly resulting from them. A detailed analysis of the conditions for growing the most common types of stimulants has also been made and the key information on this subject is presented in the following work.
How far has Africa gone in achieving sustainable development goals? Exploring...Olutosin Ademola Otekunrin
The dataset describes the status of African countries on the
attainment of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Datasets on SDG Index (SDGI) scores and other selected variables were
compiled from relevant secondary sources. Graphical illustrations
were used to describe the type of association existing between the
SDGI scores and each of the selected variables to corroborate. Further rigorous statistical analysis can be carried out using these data, in conjunction with other datasets to establish scientifically proven cause and effect relationships among the variables.
Read| The latest issue of The Challenger is here! We are thrilled to announce that our school paper has qualified for the NATIONAL SCHOOLS PRESS CONFERENCE (NSPC) 2024. Thank you for your unwavering support and trust. Dive into the stories that made us stand out!
Unit 8 - Information and Communication Technology (Paper I).pdfThiyagu K
This slides describes the basic concepts of ICT, basics of Email, Emerging Technology and Digital Initiatives in Education. This presentations aligns with the UGC Paper I syllabus.
Students, digital devices and success - Andreas Schleicher - 27 May 2024..pptxEduSkills OECD
Andreas Schleicher presents at the OECD webinar ‘Digital devices in schools: detrimental distraction or secret to success?’ on 27 May 2024. The presentation was based on findings from PISA 2022 results and the webinar helped launch the PISA in Focus ‘Managing screen time: How to protect and equip students against distraction’ https://www.oecd-ilibrary.org/education/managing-screen-time_7c225af4-en and the OECD Education Policy Perspective ‘Students, digital devices and success’ can be found here - https://oe.cd/il/5yV
Palestine last event orientationfvgnh .pptxRaedMohamed3
An EFL lesson about the current events in Palestine. It is intended to be for intermediate students who wish to increase their listening skills through a short lesson in power point.
Ethnobotany and Ethnopharmacology:
Ethnobotany in herbal drug evaluation,
Impact of Ethnobotany in traditional medicine,
New development in herbals,
Bio-prospecting tools for drug discovery,
Role of Ethnopharmacology in drug evaluation,
Reverse Pharmacology.
2024.06.01 Introducing a competency framework for languag learning materials ...Sandy Millin
http://sandymillin.wordpress.com/iateflwebinar2024
Published classroom materials form the basis of syllabuses, drive teacher professional development, and have a potentially huge influence on learners, teachers and education systems. All teachers also create their own materials, whether a few sentences on a blackboard, a highly-structured fully-realised online course, or anything in between. Despite this, the knowledge and skills needed to create effective language learning materials are rarely part of teacher training, and are mostly learnt by trial and error.
Knowledge and skills frameworks, generally called competency frameworks, for ELT teachers, trainers and managers have existed for a few years now. However, until I created one for my MA dissertation, there wasn’t one drawing together what we need to know and do to be able to effectively produce language learning materials.
This webinar will introduce you to my framework, highlighting the key competencies I identified from my research. It will also show how anybody involved in language teaching (any language, not just English!), teacher training, managing schools or developing language learning materials can benefit from using the framework.
2. 2 Olutosin Ademola Otekunrin et al./ Asian Pacific Journal of Tropical Medicine 2021; 14(1): 1-4
Capital Territory (FCT), Kogi, Sokoto and Kebbi are the states with
zero active case as of 10th August, 2020[9]. The number of cases
rose, nationally, from 4 399 to 46 867 cases within three months. The
number of deaths also increased from 143 to 950 while the number
of those that have recovered increased from 778 to 33 346 within
the same period[8,9]. It should be understood that the epidemiology
of COVID-19 remains dynamic in Nigeria, hence there is a need
for regular update as events unfold. With consideration to gender
distribution, the total number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in
Nigeria as of 10th May, 2020, was 2 998 (69%) males and 1 401
(31%) females. By 10th August, 2020; significant increase in total
cumulative case had occurred totaling 30 117 (64%) for males
and 16 750 (36%) for females[8,9]. The COVID-19 fatality rate in
Nigeria, remained 3% for 10th May, 2020 but has dropped slightly
to 2.0% on 10th August, 2020[8,9].
3. Why is Nigeria experiencing continuous spike in
COVID-19 cases?
Nigeria is the most populous country in Africa, with approximately
200 million individuals and over 95 million people living in extreme
poverty as at 14th April, 2020[9]. The continuous spike in cases
of COVID-19 in Nigeria comes with a different “outlook”. It is a
situation of “crisis within crisis” because, Nigeria currently battles
with the challenges of being the country with highest population of
poor people in the world, poor infrastructure, poor service delivery
in terms of health and nutrition and a host of other challenges[10-
12]. Majority of Nigerians live on daily income with meagre or no
savings. The pandemic and the attendant lockdown measures in the
states of the federation disrupted the livelihoods of most citizens.
Although no specific empirical data exists however , anecdotal
evidence suggests an increase in the number of poor and hungry
people in the country[12]. In such situation, breadwinners in the
family and heads of households were under intense pressure to
break the lockdown rule and go out to look for means of livelihood.
This situation intensify COVID-19 transmission dynamics with
implications on the increased number of cases.
Till date, a significant percent of Nigerian population does not
believe that COVID-19 exist because they are yet to see infected
and hospitalized persons. The erroneous speculation that people
may drop dead in the streets also did not happen which further
emboldened doubters on the non-existence of the virus and fueled
the hypothesis that the COVID-19 pandemic was just a mere
political gimmick[12]. In addition, the situation of increased extreme
hunger and abject poverty in the country made many Nigerians to
avoid compliance with the WHO and NCDC guidelines[10-12]. These
non-pharmaceutical guidelines have previously given prescriptions
on the observation of personal and respiratory hygiene including
social (physical) distancing, regular washing of hands with running
water or using alcohol based (over 65% alcohol) hand sanitizer,
avoiding crowded spaces and the use of face masks.
Using the scale of livelihoods and public health, while people
believe in health and personal safety, many Nigerians’ perceived
hunger as a much dire issue that needs immediate attention in
comparison with the COVID-19 pandemic[12]. Hence, we have
observed the loss of personal sense of responsibility with regards
to taking cognizance of the health guidelines. In addition, the
enforcement of the guidelines by law enforcement agents has
largely been ineffective including the ban on interstate movements
as unscrupulous persons allegedly bribe the officers to conduct
unpermitted inter-state travels with implications on community
spread of the virus in the country. More so, we believed that the
increase in testing capacity must have contributed to the observed
Figure 1. Increasing number of COVID-19 cases and samples tested in Nigeria.
350 000
300 000
250 000
200 000
150 000
100 000
50 000
0
Number
of
COVID-19
cases
COVID-19 sample tested
COVID-19 cases
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3. 3
Olutosin Ademola Otekunrin et al./ Asian Pacific Journal of Tropical Medicine 2021; 14(1): 1-4
continuous spike in cases of COVID-19 in the Nigeria (Table 1). The
cumulative number of samples tested increased from 8 587 on 20th
April, 2020 to 321 951 on 10th August, 2020.
Furthermore, large social gatherings such as weddings and
burial ceremonies, which does not enhance ‘physical’ distancing
supposedly lead to spread of the COVID-19 which was very
common in some states of the country. In addition, the spread of
COVID-19 was perceived to be fueled by mass religious purposes
in some parts of the country as most people share things and keep
spreading the disease. Some hypothesis also states that there is
political interference which is a very huge dimension that contributed
to the spread of the disease. Diagnostic testing of the citizens in
such a critical time remain an essential response strategy to interrupt
the transmission for the COVID-19 pandemic by informing patient
management and identifying positive cases, which can then be
isolated[13]. Although the Federal Ministry of Health prioritized
testing as one of the key interventions to the COVID-19 response;
however, a significant effect of this intervention was not been felt
in most part of the nation. Meanwhile, the shortage of diagnostic
kits and laboratory consumables keeps increasingly impacting the
optimal functionality of the laboratory system in Nigeria as most
vulnerable persons, those at elevated risk, and those with super
spreading potential had no access to testing hence, might get infected
and keep spreading the disease and or die[14]. We therefore reiterate
that poor health structure-service delivery and nutrition, poverty,
habits as identified in existing literature[15-18] from Nigeria are major
contributing factor to the spike in number of COVID-19 cases.
State
Confirmed cases Recoveries Deaths Total active cases
10 May 10 Aug. 10 May 10 Aug. 10 May 10 Aug. 10 May 10 Aug.
Lagos 1 845 15 957 469 13 122 33 193 1 343 2 642
FCT 356 4 485 53 1 298 6 46 297 3 141
Oyo 64 2 887 15 1 423 2 31 47 1 433
Edo 79 2 398 13 2 121 4 100 62 177
Rivers 21 1 944 4 1 675 2 54 15 215
Kano 602 1 634 48 1 308 26 54 528 272
Kaduna 98 1 613 14 1 380 3 12 81 221
Delta 17 1 596 3 1 409 3 43 11 144
Plateau 17 1 584 1 662 0 22 16 900
Ogun 117 1 478 33 1 245 5 24 79 209
Ondo 15 1 289 6 763 0 28 9 498
Enugu 10 914 2 500 0 19 8 395
Ebonyi 7 870 0 793 0 26 7 51
Kwara 34 865 9 460 1 21 24 384
Katsina 156 746 16 457 10 24 130 265
Borno 185 690 12 576 16 36 157 78
Abia 2 644 1 517 0 5 1 122
Gombe 112 631 10 560 1 23 101 48
Osun 39 628 30 341 4 13 5 274
Bauchi 181 577 6 528 1 14 174 35
Imo 3 479 1 161 0 10 2 308
Benue 2 409 0 109 0 9 2 291
Nasarawa 25 370 0 223 2 8 23 139
Bayelsa 6 346 0 311 0 21 6 14
Jigawa 118 322 0 308 2 11 116 3
Akwa Ibom 17 235 10 197 2 8 5 30
Niger 6 226 2 165 0 12 4 49
Adamawa 17 185 0 90 0 12 17 83
Ekiti 15 182 4 77 1 2 10 103
Sokoto 106 154 13 138 12 16 81 0
Anambra 1 142 1 119 0 18 0 5
Kebbi 24 90 1 82 3 8 20 0
Zamfara 72 77 0 71 3 5 69 1
Taraba 17 75 1 55 0 4 16 16
Cross River 0 73 0 42 0 8 0 23
Yobe 13 67 0 57 1 8 12 2
Kogi 0 5 0 3 0 2 0 0
Total 4 399 46 867 778 33 346 143 950 3 478 12 571
Table 1. Nigeria COVID-19 situation report of states with reported laboratory-confirmed COVID-19 cases, recoveries, deaths and active cases from 10th
May-10thAugust 2020.
Source: NCDC, 2020. Note: States including FCT are arranged in descending order by number of total confirmed cases.
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4. 4 Olutosin Ademola Otekunrin et al./ Asian Pacific Journal of Tropical Medicine 2021; 14(1): 1-4
4. Conclusion
This present perspective contributes to the debate about the
‘unprecedented spike’ in the number of COVID-19 cases in Africa
with special focus on Nigeria. The rising number of confirmed cases
in Nigeria is a source of worry to the public health authority because
the country situation of the virus outbreak is that of “concatenated
crisis” due to crisis of hunger, poor service delivery, challenging
governance and reduced revenues amidst COVID-19 pandemic.
With the continued effort of the health sector in curtailing the virus
spread and the political will of the Nigerian government in providing
succour to the citizens in this critical period of the pandemic, it is
hoped that the pandemic will be eradicated and controlled in Nigeria.
We recommend continued adherence to personal and respiratory
hygiene protocols based on the WHO and NCDC guidelines to keep
safe during the COVID-19 pandemic period in the country.
Conflict of interest statement
The authors of this paper declare that there is no conflict of interest.
Authors’ contributions
O. A. O., F. O. F. and O. A. O. conceptualized the work, O. A. O.
wrote the draft manuscript with input from F. O. F., A. O. O., O. A.
O. and M. A. All authors read through the work and are satisfied
with the content herewith.
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