Kano, 24 February, 2025- Following an alert of a highly pathogenic avian Influenza (H5N1) outbreak in poultry, commonly known as bird flu, in Kano state,  the World Health Organization ( WHO) has stepped up its support to the Government of Nigeria to prevent transmission of the virus to humans. While the virus spreads rapidly among birds, it also has the potential to infect mammals, including humans. It poses a significant threat to both animal and public health.

Bengo, 22 February 2025 – The World Health Organization (WHO) participated in a high-level multisectoral field visit to Bengo led by the Minister of Health, Dr. Sílvia Lutucuta, to assess ongoing efforts in the fight against cholera. The visit included the Governor of Bengo, Antónia Nelumba, the Minister of Environment, Ana Carvalho as well as several deputy ministers, and key international partners, including the World Bank, Africa CDC, UNICEF, and the Red Cross. 

There is nothing as intriguing as getting firsthand information and experiencing the inner workings of a vital facility. Recently, I had the opportunity to tour the state-of-the-art HIV Testing Centre Lab, and I was truly impressed by what I saw. The lab’s advanced infrastructure and equipment are far beyond what I had imagined, offering a clear glimpse into the future of HIV drug resistance testing.

Biharamulo – The World Health Organization (WHO), in collaboration with Tanzania’s Ministry of Health, is making significant strides in enhancing the nation’s response to the ongoing Marburg Virus Disease (MVD) outbreak. These efforts are not only focused on improving national preparedness but also on fostering regional cooperation with neighboring countries to prevent the further spread of this deadly disease.

For more than twenty-five years of volunteering in his community, 55-year-old Celestino Mbambali has witnessed countless health emergencies, including cholera outbreaks. A qualified nurse by profession, he was always concerned about the lack of a health center in his neighborhood and, driven by his commitment to his neighbors, decided to take action.

Juba - Achol Ajak, a 35-year-old resident of Bor is grateful that her family is now vaccinated and protected from cholera. Ajak stated that she was one of the first individuals to receive the cholera vaccine on the inaugural day of the cholera vaccination campaign launch in Bor South County, South Sudan.

“We feel safer now, the threat of cholera has diminished. My family and I are deeply grateful for the care we have received and extend our thank the health workers for their dedication to our community.” said Ajak

Kagera - As Tanzania continues to battle the Marburg virus outbreak, the World Health Organization (WHO) has introduced a streamlined procurement and supply chain system to strengthen coordination among the various partner organizations involved in procuring and distributing medical supplies to the Kagera region.

Kampala – Uganda today discharged eight patients who had been receiving treatment for Sudan virus disease – which belongs to the same family as Ebola virus disease – after two negative tests carried out 72 hours apart. 

The recovered patients were receiving care at treatment centres in the capital Kampala and in Mbale, a town in the east of the country. A total of 216 contacts are currently being monitored in quarantine centres at various facilities in the country. 

Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) continue to burden some of the most vulnerable populations globally, and Ghana is no exception. Among these diseases, Cutaneous Leishmaniasis (CL) remains a pressing public health concern, particularly in the Volta and Oti Regions. A significant number of cases were diagnosed in three districts in 2003 and the disease is still endemic in several municipalities today, underscoring the urgent need for a strengthened health response.