Malaria Now Rare Disease in Lagos, Says Health Commissioner
Lagos State Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi, has revealed that malaria has become increasingly rare in the state, following years of improved public health measures and strengthened disease surveillance systems.
Speaking during an interview with Channels Television on Saturday, Abayomi noted that extensive laboratory investigations carried out across Lagos show a significant decline in malaria prevalence.
According to him, only about three to four out of every 100 fever cases reported in the state are now linked to malaria.
“Malaria is now a rare disease in Lagos. Out of every hundred fevers in Lagos, about three or four are caused by malaria. And we’ve repeated this with some of the top scientists and the most robust laboratory investigation.
So malaria is a rare disease in Lagos right now,” he said.
The commissioner emphasized that the findings were consistent across multiple high-standard laboratories, reaffirming the state’s progress in managing vector-borne diseases through improved sanitation, aggressive environmental campaigns, and enhanced access to medical care.
Abayomi urged residents to be more vigilant and proactive when receiving medical diagnoses. He advised the public to always ask for test confirmation before accepting any malaria-related treatment, stressing that misdiagnosis can lead to unnecessary medication and complications.
“If they tell you that you have malaria, question it. Ask them to show you the results, the cartridge. It’s there. Your eyes can read it. It’s yes or no,” he stated.
Public health experts say this development signals a major milestone for Lagos, a state once known for high malaria burden. They, however, warned that residents must continue to embrace preventive practices, including proper waste disposal, reduction of stagnant water, and seeking timely medical care for fevers.
The Lagos State Ministry of Health is expected to intensify its awareness campaign to ensure residents understand the changing pattern of febrile illnesses in the state and avoid self-medication based on assumptions.
