The resurgence of Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, has emerged as a critical public health concern, driven by the more transmissible and virulent clade Ib strain. The outbreak, which has escalated across Central and West Africa, poses significant threats to global health security, primarily due to cross-border transmission and the inadequacies of current public health responses. This commentary examined the epidemiological trends, public health challenges, and gaps in containment efforts, offering insights and recommendations for a more effective global response. Drawing on data from the World Health Organization, this commentary reviews the epidemiological patterns of Mpox cases reported across 19 African nations from January to November 2024. In addition, it evaluates public health responses, including the challenges of vaccine distribution, diagnostic capacity, and healthcare system limitations, and discusses the broader implications for global preparedness. Despite emergency declarations and the mobilization of vaccine resources, efforts remain constrained by logistical barriers, limited vaccine availability, and underdeveloped diagnostic infrastructures. Furthermore, vaccine hesitancy, driven by misinformation and social stigma, continues to undermine containment measures. The current Mpox outbreak highlights substantial gaps in global health preparedness and inequities in access to essential health interventions. This commentary emphasizes the need for globally coordinated and equitable interventions to close these gaps, strengthen surveillance, improve vaccine distribution, and enhance cross-border public health measures. Without urgent action, the risk of further escalation and the global spread of Mpox remains a critical concern.

Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) represents a critical global health challenge, undermining the efficacy of antibiotics and escalating the risks of severe infections. This perspective examines the sharp rise in antibiotic prices in Nigeria, highlighting a major barrier in the region’s healthcare system and its ongoing battle against AMR. We aim to investigate the key factors driving this increase: economic instability, heavy reliance on imported pharmaceuticals, and regulatory inefficiencies. These elements collectively restrict access to quality antibiotics, resulting in incomplete treatments and the proliferation of fake drugs. Our findings reveal a cyclical interaction where economic and regulatory challenges directly reduce the availability and quality of antibiotics, thereby diminishing treatment effectiveness and fostering the development of resistance. This aggravates the AMR crisis and underlines how systemic failures severely hinder healthcare delivery. The significant implications of these findings demand a comprehensive approach to mitigate this issue, including economic measures such as government subsidies, strengthened regulatory frameworks, enhanced public health education, and international cooperation. Ultimately, this commentary underlines the urgent need for coordinated efforts both domestically and globally to ensure effective antibiotic use and address the escalating threat of AMR. Implementing such an integrated strategy is vital not only to overcome the obstacles posed by high antibiotic costs but also to improve the overall effectiveness of the healthcare system in managing and preventing AMR.

The escalating challenge of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) poses a considerable concern for global health, particularly impacting low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). This article highlights the critical importance of tackling AMR in LMICs by adopting the Global Antimicrobial Stewardship Accreditation Scheme (GAMSAS). GAMSAS is portrayed as a holistic and sustainable strategy for antimicrobial stewardship, extending beyond accreditation to include educational programs, capacity enhancement, improved surveillance, and support for AMS policy research. While acknowledging the global uptake of the scheme, the article highlights its preliminary phase of adoption in LMICs, particularly in high-AMR burden regions like Sub-Saharan Africa. The piece stresses the imperative for LMICs to integrate GAMSAS, underscoring its significance in optimizing antimicrobial usage and patient health outcomes. It advocates for an all-encompassing approach that leverages international cooperation and sustained financial backing, crucial for the effective deployment and enduring success of antimicrobial stewardship efforts in these key areas.

In August 2020, the public health landscape of Nigeria witnessed a monumental victory with the declaration of eradication of the Wild Polio Virus (WPV) by the World Health Organization (WHO).1 This milestone was particularly resonant for a nation that bore the burden of nearly half of the global polio cases in 2008. However, the recent unfolding narrative presents a contrasting picture. From January to August 2023, WHO has documented 51 cases of Circulating Vaccine-Derived Poliovirus type 2 (cVDPV2) in Nigeria, predominantly from the Northwestern regions grappling with significant insecurity.

Monkeypox, now named mpox, has emerged as a significant public threat, as evidenced by the 2022 outbreak affecting over seventy countries globally. This infectious disease presents debilitating symptoms, including painful skin rashes, mucosal lesions, enlarged lymph nodes, and fever. The situation intensifies with concerns about a novel transmission route, specifically through sexual contact, and the evolution of more transmissible strains. Complicating matters further is the documented spillback of mpox from humans to animals, raising the potential for new animal reservoirs. This study utilized a systematic approach to gather, analyse, and interpret data regarding global mpox outbreaks, phylogenomics, human APOBEC3 enzyme activity, antiviral resistance issues, and the application of the One Health intervention. Emphasizing a One Health approach covers various aspects, including zoonotic origins, pathogenesis, changing epidemiological landscapes, phylogenomic diversity, and clade dynamics. The review underscores the crucial role of global collaboration in understanding and combatting mpox and making it a valuable resource for shaping effective prevention and control measures on a global scale.

In addressing the persistent threat of tuberculosis (TB) - a disease that claims millions of lives, especially in low-income countries - this correspondence underlines the critical role of advancing vaccine research. Historically, the BCG vaccine, developed over a century ago, has been the cornerstone of TB prevention. However, its efficacy is limited, particularly in adults and against pulmonary TB, the most common form of the disease. Recent developments, such as the M72/AS01E vaccine, demonstrate promising results in increasing protection against TB in adults with latent infections. These advancements represent a significant leap forward in the quest to control and eventually eradicate TB. This piece highlights the necessity of continued investment in vaccine research and development. The pursuit of more effective TB vaccines, capable of providing broader protection across all age groups, is paramount. This effort not only aligns with the WHO's End TB Strategy but also offers hope for a future where TB is no longer a global health crisis

The resurgence of diphtheria in Nigeria, culminating in an outbreak surpassing previous records, has spotlighted the critical imperative for robust immunization policies amidst a milieu of vaccine hesitancy. This commentary delineates the multifaceted dimensions of the current diphtheria outbreak, which started in May 2022, juxtaposed against historical outbreaks, with a focal examination of the pervasive vaccine hesitancy and its underpinning sociocultural and systemic determinants. The discourse extends to a meticulous evaluation of Nigeria’s public health response, underlined by the synergy with international organizations, reflecting a global collaborative ethos in combating the diphtheria menace. A critical appraisal of the prevailing immunization policies unveils a necessity for strategic amendments to invigorate vaccination uptake, essential for curbing the diphtheria outbreak and enhancing public health resilience. The reflections herein advocate for a comprehensive, culturally resonant, and sustainable public health paradigm, encompassing a synergistic approach of policy fortification, community engagement, and international collaboration to navigate the challenges posed by vaccine-preventable diseases epitomized by the ongoing diphtheria outbreak. Through a synthesis of historical lessons, contemporary challenges, and global solidarity, this piece contributes to the broader discourse on enhancing immunization coverage and infectious disease control in Nigeria.

The first-ever Marburg virus disease (MVD) outbreak in Tanzania serves as a stark warning of the vulnerability of the entire world to newly emerging infectious diseases. This article looks at the causes of Tanzania’s susceptibility to MVD, containment efforts, and strategies to stop further outbreaks. The analysis emphasizes the significance of addressing socio-economic variables, environmental issues, and community participation in addition to healthcare infrastructure and surveillance systems for long-term health security. It highlights the requirement for a concerted effort on the part of governments, international organizations, and local communities, as well as ongoing financial support for public health infrastructure. The opinion also urges regional collaboration and coordination, as well as the adoption of a learning attitude to incorporate lessons from this and other outbreaks for enhancing and perfecting public health policies. We can contribute to global efforts to prevent and limit future infectious disease outbreaks and protect the health of communities around the world by adopting a thorough, proactive, and evidence-based strategy.

This paper navigates the relationship between the growing influence of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the foundational principles of academic integrity. It offers an in-depth analysis of how key academic stakeholders—publishers and universities—are crafting strategies and guidelines to integrate AI into the sphere of scholarly work. These efforts are not merely reactionary but are part of a broader initiative to harness AI’s potential while maintaining ethical standards. The exploration reveals a diverse array of stances, reflecting the varied applications of AI in academic settings. These range from conservative approaches emphasizing the need for stringent AI regulations to more progressive strategies that seek to leverage AI’s capabilities. The paper accentuates the importance of guidelines that are adaptable, transparent, and culturally sensitive, acknowledging the global context of academic research. It also highlights the pressing need for effective implementation and enforcement of these guidelines to ensure that the integration of AI into academia does not compromise the integrity of scholarly work. The conclusion emphasizes the dynamic balance required between embracing AI’s transformative potential and upholding the timeless values of academic rigor and ethical research. This comprehensive analysis aims to provide a detailed perspective on the evolving role of AI in academia, fostering a dialog on how best to navigate this new technological frontier while preserving the sanctity of academic scholarship.

Background: Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) poses a significant global health challenge, complicating the treatment of infections caused by bacteria, parasites, viruses, and fungi. Armed conflict is an underexplored and complex contributor to AMR, with numerous interrelated pathways influencing its emergence and dissemination. These mechanisms include the widespread use of antibiotics in conflict zones, inadequate infection control measures, the role of conflict-related injuries, and the breakdown of surveillance and monitoring systems. This study aims to investigate the relationship between armed conflict and AMR and to assess the extent and impact of this link on global health. Case studies, such as the Syrian civil war and the conflicts in Iraq over the past four decades, are utilized to illustrate the association between armed conflict and AMR. Recognizing and addressing this neglected aspect of AMR is essential for developing comprehensive strategies to combat its spread and preserve the efficacy of antimicrobial drugs. Further research is needed to fully understand the intricate relationship between armed conflict and AMR, which will ultimately contribute to the creation of more effective interventions and policy recommendations. This study serves as a critical step in raising awareness and stimulating discussion on the role of armed conflict in the ongoing battle against antimicrobial resistance.

Background: Plant secondary metabolites have been reported to offer a wide variety of medicinal purposes, including protection against heavy metal toxicity. Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the potentiality of naringenin a flavonoid in ameliorating the antioxidant defense system of neural and cardiac cells against aluminum chloride (AlCl3 ) toxicity in rats. Methods: The rats were divided into control (group 1), AlCl3 -treated (2), AlCl3+Naringenin-treated (3), and Naringenin-treated (4) groups. During experimentation, group 2 received an oral dose of 100 mg/kg/BW of AlCl3 , and group 3 received 100 mg/kg/BW of AlCl3 and 50 mg/ kg/BW of naringenin. In addition, group 4 received 50 mg/kg/BW of naringenin each day, while group 1 and all groups received a normal diet and water ad libitum for 30 days. The animals were sacrificed, and then blood, brain, and heart tissues were collected for biochemical and histological studies. Results: The results revealed that naringenin administration ameliorates the antioxidant defense system (catalase [CAT], superoxide dismutase [SOD], glutathione peroxidase [GPx], and glutathione transferase) in AlCl3 toxicity in neural and cardiac tissues. AlCl3 caused oxidative tissue damage, showing a significant increase in malondialdehyde (MDA) (P<0.05) in both tissues. The levels of neurotransmitter acetylcholine esterase, nitric oxide, and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) in the rats of group 3 were significantly (P<0.05) higher compared with AlCl3 -intoxicated rats. Furthermore, the AlCl3 -administered group had significantly (P<0.05) elevated levels of total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides, and low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol, with reduced high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol levels in comparison to the naringenin-treated and control groups. Naringenin treatment normalized the lipid profile. Histological analysis using the hematoxylin and eosin staining method revealed that AlCl3 caused degenerative changes in the cerebellum and cardiac tissues, which were ameliorated by co-treatment with naringenin. Conclusion: Naringenin has the potential to mitigate AlCl3 -induced oxidative stress (OS) in the neural and cardiac tissues of rats by enhancing the antioxidant defense system and reversing tissue injuries in the brain and heart.

Since January, Nigeria has experienced an outbreak of diphtheria cases in the two largest and most commercially active states, Lagos and Kano. Yobe and Osun states are also being closely monitored by health authorities. About 25 fatalities have been reported in Kano state alone, with several others hospitalized. Additionally, the Director General of the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) has also reported 78 suspected cases of extremely dangerous bacterial illness in 14 local councils in Kano State. It is important to note that while Kano and Yobe states are in the country's northern region, Osun and Lagos are in the southern region, indicating the potential for the outbreak to spread across the entire country if not promptly contained. Diphtheria is caused by Corynebacterium species. After 2-10 exposures to the bacteria, symptoms such as fever, runny nose, cough, conjunctivitis, and neck swelling may appear. In some cases, a thick, grey, or white patch may form on the tonsils or back of the throat, making it difficult to breathe. People at risk of contracting diphtheria include those who have not received all doses of the pentavalent vaccine, those living in crowded or unsanitary conditions, healthcare workers, and those in close contact with suspected or confirmed cases of diphtheria. To effectively address these outbreaks, a comprehensive approach is crucial, incorporating thorough analysis, innovative strategies, and global health perspectives. We call upon all relevant stakeholders to act swiftly and collaboratively to curtail the devastating impacts of these diseases.

Sir, Recently, the drug regulators of Ghana and Nigeria approved the R12 malaria vaccine, a ground-breaking advancement. This targets the Plasmodium sporozoite, and is to be administered to children between the ages of 5 months and 3 years. It has the potential significantly to improve malaria control, which continues to be one of the most serious public health challenges in low-to-middleincome countries, and remains one of the leading causes of child death in Africa. In the year 2015, there were approximately 429,000 malaria deaths and 212 million new cases of the disease all around the globe, with 90% and 92% of all these cases and deaths being recorded in African countries. The World Health Organisation (WHO) has recently established novel targets for an end to this parasitic infection in less than 35 endemic regions and a decline in global incidence and mortality of a minimum of 90% by 2030. The first malaria vaccine approved by WHO, RTS-S (Mosquirix) had an efficacy of <70%, but was discredited. It opened the path for the discovery of the R21 vaccine. This, developed by the University of Oxford, UK, has an efficacy up to 77%. Its increased effectiveness thus makes it a major turning point in the fight against malaria. Quoting the WHO Director General Dr Ghebreyesus, it was indeed a “historic moment and breakthrough for science, child health, and malaria control.” Prevention and control of malaria are, however, multifaceted, and various approaches have been made to attempt control of the vector, including the use of insecticide-treated mosquito nets, indoor residual spraying, larval source management, and artemisinin combination therapy, and all have shown significant benefit. However, it is important to note the role of poverty and socioeconomic factors in malaria prevalence. The burden of malaria often falls disproportionately on the most impoverished, and addressing these social determinants is a crucial part of comprehensive malaria control. R12 is therefore a breakthrough but not a replacement for these essential pre-existing preventative measures. Some challenges are awaiting WHO final approval, funding, and the establishment of local production apart from the Serum Institute of India. Obviously, the safety and efficacy of the R21 vaccine should be continually tracked and assessed, which calls for collaboration between local stakeholders, regional stakeholders, and vaccine manufacturers. All prior measures should be continuously put into practice. With the implementation of the R21 vaccine and the continuous application of prior measures, we are taking a significant step forward in our fight against malaria. No doubt, there will be anti-vaxxers who will try to denigrate the vaccine and so such measures are absolutely mandatory.

Background and Aims: Antimicrobial resistance (AMR), a global health crisis of mounting urgency, has been further complicated by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. The intricate relationship between these two phenomena is especially pronounced in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) due to the distinct obstacles encountered by their healthcare systems and policy structures. This study aims to explore the complex challenges arising from the coexistence of these two crises in LMICs and proffer specific recommendations for holistic management.Methods: An exhaustive bibliographic survey was executed, employing search queries in specialized databases such as PubMed, SCOPUS, and Web of Science's SCI-EXPANDED index. The timeframe for the literature search extended from January 2020 to January 2023. The search strategy employed key terms including antibiotic resistance, AMR, COVID-19 pandemic, low- and middle-income countries, SARS-CoV-2, and LMICs.Results: The pandemic has aggravated various drivers of AMR in LMICs, including limited capabilities, weak frameworks, and socioeconomic factors. New challenges have emerged, such as disruptions in the antibiotic supply chain and an increased risk of healthcare-associated infections. The interaction between these drivers presents a complex problem that demands a coordinated response. Specific recommendations include strengthening health systems, funding research and innovation, and enhancing infection prevention control measures.Conclusion: The coexistence of AMR and the COVID-19 pandemic in LMICs demands an integrated approach involving multiple stakeholders. Emphasis must be placed on constructing aligned regulatory frameworks, nurturing regional collaborations, and focusing on accessible therapeutic options. The study underscores the necessity for actionable strategies to achieve sustainable access to clean water and sanitation and also highlights the importance of long-term planning, funding, and specialized expertise in emerging modalities like phage therapy.