The Association of Community Pharmacists of Nigeria (ACPN), Kwara Chapter, on Saturday conducted free malaria screening for about 200 residents of Gbagede Community in Ifelodun Local Government Area, Kwara.
The programme was part of activities marking World Malaria Day, themed: “Driven to End Malaria: Now We Can. Now We Must.”
The state Chairperson of ACPN, Mrs. Munirat Bello, said residents also received free malaria drugs during the screening.
“Malaria is one of the leading causes of death among pregnant women and children under five,” she said, emphasizing the crucial role of community pharmacists in counselling, controlling, and preventing malaria as a primary healthcare concern.
Bello advised the public to sleep under Long-Lasting Insecticidal Nets (LLINs), avoid waterlogged areas, and maintain a clean environment. She noted that mosquito breeding increases during the rainy season, leading to higher malaria cases.
She also warned against self-medicating with anti-malaria drugs and stressed the importance of testing before treatment. On alternative medicines, Bello urged caution and evidence-based use of herbal remedies.
The community pharmacist praised the government for providing malaria vaccines for children under six months and called for broader coverage across all communities.
Mrs. Risikat Lawal, Director of Pharmaceutical Services, Kwara Ministry of Health, described the day’s theme as timely. She urged communities to seize the moment to protect lives and fund a malaria-free future. Commending the large turnout, Lawal stressed the need to mobilize and educate communities on malaria prevention.
ACPN member Mr. Atolagbe Daramola advised residents on preventive measures, noting that prevention is less costly than treatment. He cautioned that not all fevers are malaria, emphasizing the need for proper screening.
Earlier, the Onigbagede of Gbagede Town, Oba Abdulhakeem Ishola, praised ACPN for its humanitarian efforts, calling on the government to support such initiatives and expand healthcare facilities.
Two beneficiaries, Mr. Adewumi Adeoti and Mrs. Fauziya Oseni, expressed gratitude to ACPN for the free screening and treatment.
