𝐌𝐚𝐥𝐚𝐫𝐢𝐚 𝐧𝐨𝐰 𝐫𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐢𝐧 𝐋𝐚𝐠𝐨𝐬 — 𝐀𝐛𝐚𝐲𝐨𝐦𝐢

Malaria has become a rare disease in Lagos State, according to the Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi, who said only a small fraction of fever cases in the state are now linked to malaria.

Prof. Abayomi stated this during an interview with Channels Television on Saturday, noting that extensive and repeated laboratory investigations carried out by leading scientists across Lagos show a drastic drop in malaria prevalence.

He revealed that out of every 100 fever cases recorded in Lagos, only about three or four are caused by malaria, a development he described as a major milestone for the state.

The commissioner urged residents to question malaria diagnoses and demand test results before accepting any prescription, emphasising that malaria can easily be confirmed with simple diagnostic cartridges.

Abayomi criticised the common “malaria-typhoid” diagnosis given in many health facilities, describing it as a misleading “double jeopardy” that encourages unnecessary use of anti-malarial drugs, antibiotics, and painkillers.

According to him, many patients who assume they have malaria are instead battling viral infections that mimic malaria symptoms, and such conditions often require rest and isolation rather than aggressive treatment.

He added that Lagos is now close to eliminating malaria entirely, suggesting that neighbouring states like Ogun and Oyo may need to adopt similar homegrown health strategies, as malaria remains more common in those areas.

Latest government data shows malaria prevalence in Lagos has fallen significantly, with only about 1.3% of fevers linked to the disease. Officials credit the progress to improved testing, better case management, and digital tracking systems that enhance surveillance across public and private health facilities.

Health authorities also cautioned residents against self-treatment or assuming every fever is malaria, warning that misdiagnosis can lead to unnecessary medication and delay proper care for the actual illness.