Author: Alberta Okyere

The Health Community of West Africa Association has convened a strategic All Partners Briefing and Stakeholders Engagement Meeting in Accra, Ghana, as preparations intensify for the upcoming 2026 China–West Africa Medical Summit & Expo. The engagement, held on Thursday, May 21, 2026 at the Health Community of West Africa Association headquarters, brought together healthcare leaders, policymakers, regulators, investors, researchers, and development partners to refine the vision and structure of the landmark continental-health collaboration initiative. Organized by the Health Community of West Africa Association in collaboration with strategic partners, the briefing centered on advancing healthcare innovation, investment, manufacturing partnerships, and cross-border…

By Marilyn Tiphaine When we discuss malaria, we often picture a feverish child. But for millions of women, especially in sub-Saharan Africa, this mosquito-borne parasite represents a unique and devastating threat one that strikes at the heart of their reproductive health and survival. The most severe impact occurs during pregnancy. A pregnant woman’s immune system is naturally altered to protect her growing baby, but this change makes her three times more likely to contract severe malaria than her non-pregnant counterpart. The parasite thrives in the placenta, where it can multiply undetected, leading to maternal anemia, dangerously low birth weight, and…

By Nurse Abigail Afoley Otu , General nurse ,Osusduku district Hosptital Immunization means getting vaccines to protect the body from serious diseases. It is one of the best ways a family can stay healthy. When everyone in the family is immunized, it helps stop diseases from spreading. This protects babies, parents, and grandparents from getting sick and passing infections to each other. Immunization works by helping the body’s defense system, known as the immune system, to fight diseases. A vaccine teaches the body to recognize germs like viruses or bacteria. It is like practice for the body. Once vaccinated, the…

Immunization remains one of the most effective and cost-efficient public health interventions for preventing infectious diseases and protecting families from avoidable illnesses. It involves the administration of vaccines that stimulate the body’s immune system to develop protection against specific diseases such as measles, polio, hepatitis B, tuberculosis, diphtheria, and tetanus. For families, immunization plays a critical role in safeguarding the health of children, adults, and the elderly. Children are especially vulnerable to infectious diseases because their immune systems are still developing. Routine childhood vaccinations, usually provided through national immunization programs, help build immunity early in life and reduce the risk…

Why it helps: Meningitis and its treatments can cause dehydration, appetite loss, and inflammation. This hack focuses on easy-to-swallow, anti-inflammatory ingredients that support hydration and immune function. Base Recipe (1 serving): – 1 cup coconut water (natural electrolytes) – ½ ripe banana (potassium and easy energy) – 1 tablespoon honey (soothes throat; mild antimicrobial properties) – ¼ teaspoon turmeric powder (anti-inflammatory) – Pinch of black pepper (activates turmeric) Instructions: 1. Blend all ingredients until smooth. 2. Serve chilled or at room temperature. 3. Sip slowly, especially if nausea is present. Why this works: Coconut water replenishes electrolytes lost from fever.…

Meningitis is a serious infection of the protective membranes covering the brain and spinal cord. It can be caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi, but bacterial meningitis is the most dangerous because it can progress rapidly and become life-threatening within hours. While meningitis affects both sexes, studies and clinical observations show that men are more likely to experience severe outcomes, including complications and higher mortality rates. One key reason is behavioural and health-seeking patterns. Men are generally less likely to seek medical care early when symptoms begin. Early signs of meningitis such as fever, headache, neck stiffness, and fatigue may be ignored…

By Marilyn Tiphaine Meningitis, an inflammation of the protective membranes covering the brain and spinal cord, is a medical emergency often associated with severe headache and neck stiffness. However, one of its most alarming and critical indicators appears on the skin. Recognizing these dermatological signs can be the difference between life and death. While viral meningitis is more common and often milder, bacterial meningitis particularly the strain caused by Neisseria meningitidis has a profound and dangerous effect on skin health. As the bacteria multiply in the bloodstream, they trigger septicemia (blood poisoning). This leads to damage of blood vessel walls, causing them…

By Marilyn Tiphaine When we think of vital organs, the heart and brain get most of the attention. Yet, tucked quietly beneath your left rib cage lies the spleen a fist-sized organ with a job description that is nothing short of heroic. Often called the “guardian of the bloodstream,” the spleen is essential for immune defense and blood health. The spleen performs two primary functions. First, it acts as a sophisticated blood filter. As blood flows through its complex network of sinuses, the spleen identifies and removes old, malformed, or damaged red blood cells. It also recycles the iron from…

Ingredients1 cup quinoa or brown rice (fiber + energy)1 cup spinach or kale (rich in antioxidants)½ cup broccoli (supports detox processes)½ avocado (healthy fats for hormone support)1 boiled egg or grilled chicken/fish (protein + zinc)1 tablespoon nuts or seeds (pumpkin or walnuts are great)1 tablespoon olive oilJuice of ½ lemonOptional: garlic, turmeric, or black pepper How to prepareCook quinoa or rice and let it cool slightlyLightly steam broccoli (don’t overcook to keep nutrients)In a bowl, add greens, grains, and broccoliAdd sliced avocado and proteinSprinkle seeds or nutsDrizzle olive oil and lemon juiceAdd a pinch of turmeric and black pepper for…

By Marilyn Tiphaine Parkinson’s disease (PD) is widely recognized for its hallmark motor symptoms tremor, stiffness, and slowed movement. However, growing evidence shows that PD extends far beyond movement disorders. Nearly all patients experience non-motor symptoms, and among the most overlooked are skin-related conditions that can significantly affect comfort, appearance, and quality of life. PD is a neurodegenerative disorder caused by the loss of dopamine-producing neurons. While this primarily affects the bra in, research shows that the disease also has widespread effects throughout the body including the skin. Factors such as inflammation, immune dysfunction, and genetic pathways appear to link neurological changes with…