Lara Adejoro The Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof Muhammad Pate says the effects of climate change have impacted air quality, worsening both infectious and non-communicable diseases, malnutrition, and food insecurity. Pate said this on Thursday at the 2024 Future of Health Conference organised by the Nigeria Health Watch themed, “From evidence to action: Building resilience at the climate-health nexus.” He emphasised that the climate and health challenge is not just a concern for the future, but a reality today, as the impact is already being felt across the world and Nigeria.
“This year, Nigeria has faced significant climate-related disruptions, including widespread flooding and droughts in various regions. These environmental shifts have brought with them a sharp increase in climate-sensitive diseases. “In December, during a visit to Kano, community leaders expressed concern about seeing malaria cases during a time of year when it is usually not prevalent.
We are also witnessing the emergence of new vectors, such as dengue in Sokoto and yellow fever in other regions. Additionally, cholera outbreaks linked to contaminated water sources and other enteric diseases are becoming more frequent. “The effects of climate change are not confined to infectious diseases.
The air quality has worsened, exacerbating both infectious diseases and Non-Communicable Diseases, such as respiratory issues and cardiovascular conditions, which now represent the fas.
