Health/Beauty

OMICRON VARIANT: WE’LL PROSECUTE ANYONE FLOUTING COVID-19 GUIDELINES, TRAVEL PROTOCOLS- SANWO-OLU

Published

3 years ago

December 8, 2021

Sahara Weekly

Youth Organization hails Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Second Term Endorsement

OMICRON VARIANT: WE’LL PROSECUTE ANYONE FLOUTING COVID-19 GUIDELINES, TRAVEL PROTOCOLS- SANWO-OLU

…Offenders’ passports to be blacklisted for one year.

…Gov warns against procurement of fake COVID-19 test results

Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Tuesday said his government through the courts will prosecute anyone found wanting in compliance with the current guidelines on travel protocols released by the Presidential Steering Committee.

Sanwo-Olu said Lagos State Government in partnership with the Presidential Steering Committee will commence the prosecution of those that refuse to submit themselves for the mandatory tests by blacklisting their passports for a period of one year.

“All foreigners that flout the rules would be subjected to possible deportation. Therefore, I implore all intending inbound passengers to perform their required tests at any of the private laboratories within the Lagos State Private Laboratory Consortium as and when due,” the governor said in a statement he issued and signed on Tuesday.

The current guidelines on travel protocols released by the Presidential Steering Committee on COVID-19, which must be followed by all passengers arriving in Nigeria are; a COVID-19 PCR test to be done within 48hrs before departure; Post arrival Day 2 COVID-19 PCR test; All partially and unvaccinated individuals to self-isolate for seven days following arrival into the country and a Day 7 release PCR test; All outbound passengers to demonstrate evidence of full vaccination against COVID-19; and Negative PCR test result within 48hrs from the time to boarding a flight out of Nigeria.

Governor Sanwo-Olu assured Lagosians that despite the huge financial obligations and constraints associated with managing the COVID-19 pandemic, his administration will continue to do everything within its power to ensure the preservation of the lives and livelihood of residents of Lagos State.

He said Regulation of Day 2 and Day 7 tests for inbound passengers for International flights are mandatory to assist Lagos State monitor the inflow of positive passengers, which it has identified as a veritable source of waves and community spread of the virus.

The governor also warned against intending outbound passengers procuring fake COVID test results and/or vaccination cards for travel purposes, disclosing that “the State Government is currently working with the NCDC, DSS and the Nigerian Police Force to investigate and bring to book the criminal gangs involved in this reprehensible activity.”

“We implore everyone to desist from patronizing these gangs, as anyone found with a fake COVID test result and/or vaccination card will also be liable to prosecution and very stiff penalties.

“Our State Mobile Courts will be used to prosecute all those involved in flouting the regulations; as well as those engaged in the fraudulent production of fake covid test results and vaccination certificates. To this end, the Lagos State Ministry of Health is collaborating with various enforcement stakeholders from the Ministry of Justice and the Task Force to ensure prompt prosecution of these individuals.”

Governor Sanwo-Olu said Lagos like in other parts of the world, including Africa, is experiencing the beginning of a fourth wave with a current positivity rate of six per cent, which is against the positivity rates of 0.1 per cent as of the middle of November 2021 in the State.

“Based on our analysis, the fourth wave was brought by the non-adherence to the laid down protocols to mitigate this pandemic. I would want to use this opportunity once again to appeal to everyone to get vaccinated and join hands with the Lagos State Government in managing this wave of the pandemic in this festive season by following the guidelines we have set, especially regarding the use of face masks, public gatherings and travelling in and out of Lagos State,” he said.

Speaking on efforts being put in place by the Lagos State Government to mitigate the fourth wave of the COVID-19 pandemic, Governor Sanwo-Olu said his administration has deployed a robust strategy that involves the private sector to improve access to vaccines.

“Our approach to mitigating the effects of the ongoing wave of the COVID-19 pandemic includes increasing the percentage of vaccinated residents of Lagos State from 1.6 percent to 30 percent within one year. I have specifically mandated the Lagos State Ministry of Health to administer eight million doses to four million residents of Lagos State people by the 25th of December 2021 under the Count Me In campaign.

“We are launching 30 private priority sites for those who want to be vaccinated within a private health facility. While vaccination at public centres remains free, there is an administration fee (N4,500 per dose and N6,000 for two doses) at private centres. To register for the vaccination, please visit the registration portal at https://nphcda.vaccination.gov.ng/

“Over the next couple of days, the Lagos State Government would release policies to facilitate the uptake of vaccines to achieve desirable herd immunity,” the governor said.

As parts of the measures put in place to curb the spread of the virus, especially during the festive period, Governor Sanwo-Olu said occupancy limit at any event must not exceed 60 percent of maximum design capacity as stipulated by the Lagos State Safety Commission, adding that attendees of social gatherings must present their Vaccination Cards or digital bar code page showing at least first dose but preferably double dose full vaccination.

Speaking on the Epidemiology Update, Governor Sanwo-Olu disclosed that: “As of the 5th of December 2021, Lagos State had recorded a total of 78,564 confirmed cases of COVID-19. Of this number, 71,977 have recovered in the community and 612 are currently being managed actively in the community. Over the course of managing the COVID-19 pandemic, about 6,066 patients have been admitted into our various COVID-19 care centres in Lagos: with 686 registered fatalities.”

Governor Sanwo-Olu who commended the frontline workers and health workers at the State and federal levels for their dedication and commitment in the management of the response to the pandemic implored all residents of Lagos to comply with all the COVID-19 guidelines and join hands with the government in the management of the pandemic.

Health/Beauty

Transforming Healthcare: RapidHeal Nigeria Offers Job Opportunities for 100 Certified Nurses Nationwide

Published

3 days ago

December 19, 2024

Sahara Weekly

Transforming Healthcare: RapidHeal Nigeria Offers Job Opportunities for 100 Certified Nurses Nationwide

RapidHeal Nigeria, a leader in advanced wound and skin care solutions, is creating life-changing opportunities for healthcare professionals. With its global headquarters in Malaysia, RapidHeal is set to employ and empower 100 certified nurses across Nigeria, equipping them with specialized training to deliver world-class care to patients nationwide.

The initiative combines employment with cutting-edge education in wound and skin care management, ensuring participating nurses are equipped with innovative skills and tools to provide effective care at patients’ doorsteps.

Why Join the RapidHeal Nurse Empowerment Program?

State-of-the-Art Training: Master advanced wound and skin care protocols.
Nationwide Impact: Join a growing healthcare network bringing essential services to underserved areas.
Career Growth: Elevate your expertise and reputation in the medical field.
Patient-Centric Care: Transform lives by offering mobility-friendly treatment options.

“Our mission is to bridge healthcare gaps and empower nurses to deliver life-changing care,” said Chinedu Nsofor, Country Director of RapidHeal Nigeria. “Through this program, we aim to uplift healthcare standards and strengthen Nigeria’s position as a hub for medical excellence.”

Eligibility and How to Apply
Certified nurses passionate about innovative healthcare solutions are encouraged to apply. Visit www.rapidhealclinic.com or email [email protected]. Application deadline: January 30, 2025.

About RapidHeal Nigeria
RapidHeal Nigeria offers steroid-free, doctor-approved wound and skin care solutions designed to deliver fast, effective results. The organization is dedicated to improving lives, empowering healthcare professionals, and positioning Nigeria as a global leader in medical tourism.

For further details, visit www.rapidhealclinic.com.

Health/Beauty

Why Men Without Morning Erection Need Help

Published

4 weeks ago

November 25, 2024

Sahara Weekly

Why Men Without Morning Erection Need Help

Male reproductive health experts have urged men to take their sexual health seriously by seeking medical evaluation if they are not experiencing morning erections, a common and natural occurrence in healthy men.

The urologists stated that men experiencing persistent erectile issues or concerns should consult a healthcare professional for personalised evaluation and guidance.

Speaking exclusively with PUNCH Healthwise, the physicians advised men not having morning erections to carry out a comprehensive health assessment, including hormone testing, semen analysis, and lifestyle evaluations, to determine the underlying causes which may be erectile dysfunction or infertility.

According to Healthline, morning erections, a natural occurrence in most men, are often seen as a sign of healthy sexual function. They are typically caused by increased blood flow and hormonal fluctuations during the rapid eye movement (REM) phase of sleep.

The health website, however, noted that a notable number of men have reported experiencing a lack of morning erections, raising concerns about potential fertility or sexual health problems.

While some experts suggested that the absence of morning erection could be linked to underlying health issues, including infertility, others argued that it is not a reliable indicator of reproductive health.

A consultant urologist, Dr Emmanuel Eze stated that the body’s ability to have regular morning erections may be a reflection of broader reproductive health.

The physician stressed that the absence of morning erections could signal problems with hormone levels, such as low testosterone, or vascular health, which could affect overall erectile function and, in some cases, fertility.

Eze emphasised that morning erection is a natural occurrence during the REM sleep stage, typically happening 3-5 times per night.

The physician explained that the absence of morning erections could suggest issues such as erectile dysfunction, low testosterone levels, or underlying cardiovascular conditions.

According to him, it is normal for men to experience morning erections three to five times each night. These erections are typically spontaneous and occur without sexual arousal. The process is part of the body’s natural hormonal fluctuations and is linked to the functioning of the nervous system and blood flow.

Eze explained that these spontaneous erections during sleep are crucial in maintaining healthy erectile function and, by extension, overall reproductive health.

He emphasised that they are a natural and healthy sign of the body’s ability to achieve and maintain erections, which are important for male fertility.

“While occasional changes in morning erections are normal as men age, a persistent lack of them could point to potential health problems such as erectile dysfunction, low testosterone, or even more serious conditions like heart disease. Men mustn’t ignore these early warning signs.

“A comprehensive evaluation can help pinpoint the cause and allow for timely treatment options, whether it’s lifestyle changes, therapy, or medications,” Eze added.

Speaking further, the urologist elaborated that the absence of morning erections could be an indication of various medical conditions that might impact sexual and reproductive health.

“Erectile dysfunction is often the result of an imbalance in the body’s ability to deliver blood to the penis. If morning erections are absent, it could be a reflection of poor blood flow or nerve function, which are key contributors to erectile dysfunction,” Eze explained.

In addition to erectile dysfunction, the male reproductive expert noted that the absence of morning erections may also be linked to low testosterone levels.

He added, “Testosterone is the primary male sex hormone, essential for sexual function, mood regulation, and the production of sperm. A decline in testosterone can lead to a reduced frequency of morning erections. It can also cause a range of other symptoms, such as fatigue, decreased libido, and loss of muscle mass. While a decrease in testosterone levels is a natural part of aging, significant drops in testosterone could signal more serious health concerns.”

Eze also underscored the connection between erectile function and male fertility, stressing that problems with achieving or maintaining an erection could affect a man’s ability to conceive.

He explained that erectile function plays a critical role in sperm delivery, and when erectile issues arise, they could make it more difficult to engage in regular sexual activity, which could impact fertility.

“There is a direct connection between erectile function and male fertility. If a man is consistently not experiencing morning erections, it could indicate that there’s an issue with his reproductive system, whether it’s a problem with his hormones, blood vessels, or nerve function,” he said.

He pointed out that while the absence of morning erections does not automatically equate to infertility, it could signal underlying problems that should be addressed.

Eze advised that men who notice a persistent absence of morning erections should consult a urologist for an evaluation of their reproductive and sexual health.

He explained that poor blood circulation, which is often associated with heart disease or high blood pressure, can directly affect the ability to achieve erections.

“The vessels that supply blood to the penis are small and delicate, and when these vessels are compromised due to poor cardiovascular health, it can result in a decreased ability to have spontaneous erections.

“Erectile dysfunction is frequently one of the early signs of cardiovascular problems. If a man is not having morning erections, it could be a sign that his vascular health is not in optimal condition. It’s essential to recognise this as a potential red flag and seek medical advice before the issue becomes more severe,” the urologist warned.

However, a Senior Registrar in Urology at the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital, Dr. Akpo Edewor, argued that the lack of a morning erection is not necessarily an indication of serious health concerns, as many people assume.

Edewor emphasised that the absence of morning erections is not an automatic sign of erectile dysfunction or serious sexual health problems.

He explained, “Morning erections should not be viewed as the definitive measure of sexual health. It is important to understand that men can still maintain erectile function despite not having morning erections. This does not immediately indicate erectile dysfunction.”

The urologist stressed that various factors, such as sleep patterns, stress, or even the time a man wakes up, can influence whether or not he experiences a morning erection.

He further clarified that a key component in assessing erectile health is the ability to achieve an erection in response to sexual stimuli.

“If a man can still attain an erection when engaging with a partner, even without morning erections, this indicates that his erectile function is likely intact,” he stated.

Erectile dysfunction, according to Edewor, is more complex than just the absence of morning erections. It is a condition where a man consistently struggles to achieve or maintain an erection sufficient for sexual intercourse.

He said various health conditions, including heart disease, diabetes, hypertension, and even the medications used to treat these conditions, could contribute to erectile dysfunction.

Health/Beauty

Doctor Warns On The Danger Of Excessive Masturbation

Published

3 months ago

October 3, 2024

Sahara Weekly

Doctor Warns On The Danger Of Excessive Masturbation

A British doctor has warned that excessive masturbation is behind the rise of male health problems.

In moderation, self-pleasure helps to reduce stress, and improve sleep quality and mood, but it can become ‘an unhealthy habit’ and trigger a form of erectile dysfunction, says Dr Donald Grant, GP and senior clinical advisor at The Independent Pharmacy.

‘Overall, there’s no strict rule or guideline on how much people should masturbate.’

‘But when masturbation gets out of hand, there’s a variety of ways it can impact sexual and physical health.’

A key concern is the rise of porn use: half of adults in the UK now access graphic material online, according to a recent survey by media watchdog Ofcom, and Dr Grant links this to the rise in porn-induced erectile dysfunction, or PIED.

Up to 50 percent of adult men suffer from some degree of erectile dysfunction, according to the British Association of Urological Surgeons. It is often associated with obesity, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes but can also have no obvious cause. One lesser-known culprit could be PIED, claims Dr Grant.

‘PIED is a type of erectile dysfunction that stems from an unhealthy consumption of pornography.

‘This unhealthy porn usage can lead to desensitisation, making it more difficult for men to achieve and maintain an erection — as they’re used to more intense sexual activity seen on screen.

‘It can lead to reduced interest in sex with actual partners as men prioritise porn and masturbation instead.’

More worryingly, Dr Grant warns that compulsive masturbation could trigger physical changes that affect intimacy.

‘Compulsive masturbation can lead to reduced sensitivity in the genital area, making it more difficult to achieve sexual pleasure or stimulation.

‘It can occur when nerve endings become damaged from too much activity, creating a loss of sensitivity.

‘This can also impact individuals who masturbate too roughly, causing potential friction damage.

‘Thankfully, this is a short-term issue and factors such as taking breaks or utilising lubricants can help restore sensitivity.

‘And thankfully, there are a range of treatments available to men who are struggling with ED, helping them manage a healthy sex life and achieve erections with ease.’

Dr Grant added that ‘over-masturbating’ can be damaging in other ways.

It can cause men and women to become ‘hyper-focused on their own pleasure, meaning when the time comes for sexual intercourse with a partner, individuals could experience performance anxiety, which directly impacts sex drive.’

The question of how much is too much is subjective, he admitted.
‘Masturbation habits can differ largely from person to person with some people doing it daily, weekly or not at all.

‘It’s important to monitor the sexual activity to ensure it doesn’t interfere with social lives, work or relationships.

‘Additionally, discomfort or injury is usually a telltale sign that the masturbation sessions are becoming too much and harming health.

‘It’s important to maintain a healthy but sensible sex life through masturbation, ensuring it’s not at the expense of daily activities.

‘Some people can even experience mental distress due to guilt or shame relating to their masturbation — this can stem from porn usage or other factors, but can have a big effect on people’s mental well-being.

‘Overall, common sense is required to ensure it remains a recreational activity without interfering with other aspects of daily life.’