In a society where health and wellbeing are paramount, organizations like the National Association of Taraba State Medical and Dental Students (NATAMS) play a vital role in promoting public health education and community engagement. As a shining example of commitment to service, NATAMS has been making waves in Taraba State with its recent activities and outreach programs.
Under the leadership of Comrade Usman Sanusi Bakondi, NATAMS successfully organized a one-day sensitization and awareness campaign on Cholera and Lassa fever on January 11, 2025. The event, which was officially launched by the Association of Resident Doctors(ARD) President of Federal Medical Center Jalingo, Dr. Chumo Danjuma, featured health talks emphasizing good hygiene practices, clearing of bushes, and proper handwashing techniques as demonstrated by the WHO's guidelines.
A recent investigation has revealed that Taraba State, Nigeria, is grappling with a severe health crisis due to the neglect of World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines on hygiene, waste management, and community engagement.
The WHO guidelines emphasize the importance of proper handwashing techniques, access to clean water and sanitation facilities, and effective waste management systems in preventing the spread of infectious diseases such as cholera and Lassa fever.
However, research has shown that many communities in Taraba State lack access to these basic necessities. A study published in the Journal of Environmental Health Science and Engineering found that only 27.6% of households in Taraba State had access to improved sanitation facilities, while 63.4% of households relied on unimproved sources of drinking water.
The consequences of this neglect are dire. In 2020, a cholera outbreak in Yola town resulted in over 100 reported cases. Moreover, a study published in the Journal of Community Medicine and Primary Health Care found that only 35.4% of respondents in Taraba State had heard of Lassa fever, and only 14.5% knew how to prevent it.
The lack of effective waste management systems in Taraba State has also contributed to the health crisis. A study published in the Journal of Waste Management found that only 15.6% of households in Jalingo, the capital city, had access to regular waste collection services, while 71.1% of households disposed of their waste through open dumping.
Health experts warn that the situation in Taraba State is a ticking time bomb, and urgent action is needed to address the health crisis. "The neglect of WHO guidelines on hygiene, waste management, and community engagement has led to a severe health crisis in Taraba State," said another health practitioner, a public health expert. "It is imperative that the state government takes immediate action to address these issues and prevent further outbreaks."
The state government is reported to have played it's role towards the enhancement of health and wellbeing facilities, it's not without some shortcomings. Reports have been filed in on how residents are calling for urgent action to address the lack of access to clean water, sanitation facilities, and effective waste management systems.
As the situation in Taraba State continues to improve, it remains to be seen whether the state government will take the necessary steps to sustain the development of the health sector and prevent further suffering for residents.
The campaign as championed by NATAM began with a march from Mayogwoi Bus Stop to the FMC Junction, covering various neighborhoods in Jalingo. This outreach aimed to raise awareness on the outbreak of Lassa fever in Wukari and cholera in Yola, highlighting the urgent need for public health education. The team distributed free hand sanitizers and shared critical preventive information with the community.
NATAMS also conducted a successful health outreach program in Zing Local Government Area, Taraba State, providing essential medical services such as free consultations, medications, and health talks. The event was supported by a team of medical doctors, pharmacists, nurses, and healthcare professionals.
A notable beneficiary of the outreach was Alh. Sani Zakari Ya'u, CEO of Sells Rocket, who pledged to support the local community by offering full scholarships to 10 students seeking admission to health-related programs in the 2025 JAMB. This initiative complements ongoing educational projects led by Pharm. Abdulhameed Abdullahi and Engr. Daniel Pius Danba.
The leadership of NATAMS also paid a courtesy visit to the Kpanti of Zing, who expressed his appreciation for the students' tireless efforts in giving back to society. The citizens of Zing were extremely grateful for the free medical services provided, and the event was widely celebrated.
NATAMS remains dedicated to organizing similar outreach programs in other regions of the state, continuing its commitment to service. Under the leadership of Comrade Usman Bakondi, the association vows to serve selflessly to the best of its abilities.
As we recognize the importance of community engagement in promoting health and wellbeing, we applaud NATAMS for its tireless efforts in serving humanity. Their commitment to public health education and community service is a shining example for others to follow.
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