Borno Residents Struggle with High Drug Costs Amid Malaria Surge

Residents of Maiduguri, Borno State, are grappling with a significant rise in malaria cases, which has been exacerbated by the soaring cost of medication and preventives. The situation has prompted urgent calls for intervention to address the escalating health crisis affecting both children and adults.

Ibrahim Aisha, a fashion designer from Maiduguri’s Modugari area, described the current malaria outbreak as “worrisome.” She shared that two of her siblings are suffering from malaria, and during their hospital visit, they encountered numerous other patients with similar conditions. “Malaria has always been prevalent in Maiduguri, especially during the rainy season, but this year it’s worse. The cost of drugs has become a significant burden,” she said.

Michel Onah, a private school teacher, noted that in previous years, the government and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) provided crucial support, including free drugs, mosquito nets, and fumigation services. However, these aids are now scarce, leaving residents struggling to manage their health amidst economic difficulties. “In the past, we received considerable support during the rainy season, like mosquito nets and free medical services. Now, with those incentives missing, affordability has become a major issue,” Onah added.

Pharmacist Ferdinand Chinda highlighted the severity of the situation, reporting that a significant percentage of cases he encounters are malaria-related. He urged residents to take personal precautionary measures and emphasized the importance of environmental hygiene and early detection. “In the past 10 days, seven out of every 10 cases I’ve treated have been malaria-related. Many patients struggle with the cost of treatment and seek any available relief,” Chinda said.

Chinda also pointed out that past government efforts, such as cleaning and fumigating drainage systems, played a crucial role in controlling malaria. He stressed the need for ongoing efforts to maintain these preventive measures. “Effective drainage systems are crucial to prevent malaria. We must continue to emphasize prevention, early detection, and effective treatment, as malaria remains a serious health concern,” he concluded.