In a significant move towards universal healthcare, Canada’s parliament has passed a bill to fully fund contraception and diabetes medications. This new legislation is particularly impactful for the one in five Canadians who struggle with the high costs of prescription drugs. In 2023 alone, Canadians spent C$41 billion on prescriptions, with over C$8 billion paid out-of-pocket.

The bill aims to cover 100% of the costs for individuals without existing insurance and is expected to increase federal spending by C$1.9 billion over the next five years. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau praised the bill as “real progress” and urged provincial leaders to support the legislation’s swift implementation. British Columbia has already signed a memorandum of understanding, but other provinces like Alberta and Quebec have raised concerns about federal overreach into provincial healthcare jurisdictions.

Despite these concerns, reproductive health advocates celebrate the bill, as it will provide access to contraception for around nine million women of reproductive age, as well as crucial diabetes medications for the 3.7 million Canadians living with the condition. While critics argue that a single-payer model could limit drug access and increase taxpayer burdens, the legislation represents a major step forward in Canada’s journey toward comprehensive drug coverage.

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Senator Ipalibo Harry Banigo, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Health Secondary and Tertiary, has issued a clarion call for immediate action to address Nigeria’s staggering maternal and neonatal mortality rates. With a maternal mortality rate of 512 deaths per 100,000 live births and a neonatal mortality rate of 39 deaths per 1,000 live births, Nigeria is facing a healthcare crisis that demands swift attention.

Speaking at a critical dialogue with female Commissioners of Health from across Nigeria, Senator Banigo emphasized the need for collective action to reverse these alarming trends. “These statistics are unacceptable and require our immediate attention. We cannot afford to accept these numbers as the norm. As women leaders in health, we have a unique responsibility to save countless lives and transform healthcare for our women and children.”

Senator Banigo, who represents Rivers West Senatorial District in the National Assembly, drew on her experience as former Acting Commissioner of Health and Deputy Governor to stress the importance of collaboration across all levels of healthcare service providers. “We must work together towards a common goal. The health outcomes of your state are your responsibility, and it is essential to understand that you are accountable for the entire spectrum of care.”

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The meeting, organized by the Office of the Special Adviser to the President on Health (OASP-H), aimed to discuss issues around the health of women and children in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. Senator Banigo’s call to action underscores the urgent need for coordinated efforts to address Nigeria’s maternal and neonatal mortality rates and ensure a healthier future for its citizens.

A devastating mpox outbreak is sweeping across Africa, with the Congo reporting over 1,000 new cases in just one week. The World Health Organization has declared the outbreak a global emergency, yet the continent is struggling to access desperately needed vaccines.

Mpox, a viral disease related to smallpox, has infected over 18,000 people in Africa this year, with 94% of cases reported in the Congo. The disease causes mild symptoms, but can lead to severe lesions and death. The Congo’s health minister has urged for 3 million vaccine doses to combat the outbreak, but so far, only a fraction of the needed vaccines have been pledged.

The outbreak has highlighted a stark global disparity in access to vaccines and treatments. During the 2022 mpox outbreak, rich nations received vaccines and treatments, while Africa was left behind. South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has criticized the global response, calling for “equitable access” to diagnostics and vaccines.

Africa CDC’s Dr. Jean Kaseya has appealed for international solidarity, urging against travel bans that would isolate affected countries. “Don’t punish Africa,” he said. “We need your support. This vaccine is expensive.”

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As the mpox outbreak continues to spread, the international community must act swiftly to provide vaccines and support to affected countries. The world cannot afford to repeat the mistakes of the COVID-19 pandemic, where Africa was left behind. It’s time for global solidarity to combat this growing health crisis.