Equi-Resp Africa has officially commenced the second phase of its free medical outreach aimed at combating respiratory diseases such as asthma and pneumonia in Ebonyi State. The initiative, which kicked off in Okposhi Umuoghara, Ezza North Local Government Area, targets over 100 rural residents battling various respiratory ailments.
The health intervention is being implemented by the David Umahi Federal University of Health Sciences, Uburu, in partnership with the Institute for Child Health (ICH) at Alex Ekwueme Federal University Teaching Hospital, Abakaliki (AE-FUTHA).
During the launch, Prof. Jesse Uneke, Vice Chancellor of the university and principal investigator of the project, emphasized that the program aims to provide early detection and prompt treatment for individuals affected by respiratory conditions. According to him, the outreach will offer free medical screening, medications, and inhalers to at least 100 beneficiaries, with severe cases referred to AE-FUTHA for further medical attention.
“Equi-Resp Africa is committed to addressing asthma and pneumonia in underserved communities. This second phase begins in Okposhi Umuoghara, where we will treat 100 individuals at no cost. Critical patients will be transferred to AE-FUTHA’s Institute for Child Health for continued care,” Prof. Uneke explained.
He also expressed appreciation to HRH Eze Anthony Njoku, the traditional ruler of the host community, for his immense support, stressing that community involvement is vital for the success of healthcare initiatives.
In her remarks, Prof. Thecla Ezeonu, Director of ICH at AE-FUTHA, highlighted that the outreach was strategically planned to coincide with the rainy season, a period marked by an increase in respiratory infections. She urged community members to take advantage of the services and spread awareness among neighbors.
“The outreach will last for four days, supported by a team of medical professionals and fully equipped with diagnostic tools. We encourage villagers to turn out in large numbers,” Prof. Ezeonu added.
HRH Eze Anthony Njoku lauded the medical team, describing the initiative as a timely and life-saving intervention for the community.
Beneficiaries like Mrs. Chinyere Isaac and Mr. Nweze Nwanga expressed heartfelt gratitude to the organizers, noting that access to such quality healthcare is rare in remote areas.
The four-day medical campaign features health education, free medications, diagnostic screenings, and cultural presentations, all geared towards improving community health outcomes in Ebonyi State.
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