Epilepsy is a neurological disorder characterized by recurrent seizures, which are sudden, temporary disturbances in brain activity. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 50 million people worldwide live with epilepsy, making it one of the most common neurological disorders.

Types of Epilepsy

There are several types of epilepsy, including:

1. Idiopathic epilepsy: This type of epilepsy has no known cause.
2. Symptomatic epilepsy: This type of epilepsy is caused by a brain injury, infection, or other medical condition.
3. Cryptogenic epilepsy: This type of epilepsy has an unknown cause, but it is suspected that there may be an underlying brain abnormality.

Causes and Risk Factors

The exact cause of epilepsy is often unknown, but several factors can increase the risk of developing the condition:

1. Genetics: A family history of epilepsy can increase the risk.
2. Head trauma: A severe head injury can cause epilepsy.
3. Infections: Certain infections, such as meningitis or encephalitis, can increase the risk.
4. Brain tumors: Tumors in the brain can cause epilepsy.

Symptoms

The primary symptom of epilepsy is seizures, which can manifest in different ways:

1. Generalized seizures: These seizures affect the entire brain and can cause convulsions, loss of consciousness, and muscle contractions.
2. Focal seizures: These seizures affect a specific part of the brain and can cause localized symptoms, such as numbness or weakness.

Diagnosis

Diagnosing epilepsy typically involves:

1. Medical history: A thorough review of the patient’s medical history.
2. Physical examination: A physical examination to rule out other conditions.
3. Electroencephalogram (EEG): An EEG test to measure brain activity.
4. Imaging tests: Imaging tests, such as MRI or CT scans, to rule out underlying brain abnormalities.

Treatment and Management

While there is no cure for epilepsy, various treatments can help manage the condition:

1. Medications: Anticonvulsant medications can help control seizures.
2. Surgery: In some cases, surgery may be necessary to remove the part of the brain causing the seizures.
3. Lifestyle modifications: Making lifestyle changes, such as getting regular exercise, maintaining a healthy diet, and getting enough sleep, can help manage epilepsy.

Epilepsy is a complex neurological disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. While there is no cure, various treatments and lifestyle modifications can help manage the condition. By understanding the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options, individuals with epilepsy can lead active and fulfilling lives.

The African Union’s health monitoring body revealed on Thursday that it has approved an mpox test from Morocco, calling it a “significant achievement” in the ongoing battle against the outbreak across Africa.

This announcement follows three months since the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) declared the mpox outbreak a public health emergency.

In a statement shared on X on Thursday, the CDC confirmed its endorsement of what it described as the first locally produced real-time PCR test for mpox, developed in Morocco.

It stated that the test rapidly identifies pathogen DNA in blood, saliva, or tissue, and that its approval by the CDC emphasized its “reliability and efficacy”.

“This major milestone aligns with the African Union’s continental initiative to strengthen the self-sufficiency of African public health systems, enhancing the continent’s capacity for disease preparedness and response.”

In the previous month, the World Health Organization authorized the Alinity m MPXV assay as the first diagnostic test for mpox.

Developed by Abbott Molecular Inc., this test allows for the identification of the mpox virus in samples collected from human lesions.

Since the beginning of the year, more than 50,000 cases of mpox and approximately 1,100 fatalities have been reported across Africa. Central Africa is responsible for over 85 percent of the cases and nearly all of the deaths.

Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, is a viral infection primarily spread to humans from infected animals, though it can also be transmitted between people through close contact.

The disease leads to symptoms such as fever, muscle pain, and large, boil-like skin sores, and it can be fatal.

In mid-August, both the Africa CDC and the World Health Organization declared the mpox outbreak a public health emergency.

Patients and their relatives have protested the unavailability of water and electricity at the University College Hospital (UCH) in Ibadan, Oyo State.

News media, Oyo Affairs disclosed this on Monday in a post it shared on its official X account.

“Patients and some of their families are protesting the unavailability of water and electricity after the Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company (IBEDC) disconnected UCH’s power for 17 days,” the post read.

According to the statement, the power outage has affected vital hospital operations like delays in test results and surgeries, among others.

The management of UCH has, according to Oyo Affairs, said that the hospital falls under the “Band A” electricity tariff structure, which requires them to pay N80 million monthly.

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has confirmed that its operatives seized N5 million worth of counterfeit agrochemical products and goods in Bauchi State. 

NAFDAC confirmed the seizure of the goods on Sunday morning in a statement where it said the operation took place across multiple locations within the Bauchi metropolis.

The successful operation led to the sealing of three facilities suspected of distributing the fake product, known as “Patriarc.” 

According to the statement, three owners were arrested and security authorities are now seeking the importer or manufacturer behind the counterfeit goods.

NAFDAC credited intelligence reports for guiding the successful raid which targeted dealers distributing unregulated agrochemicals in the area. 

The agency further spoke about the importance of purchasing products from reputable sources to avoid health and environmental hazards. 

The seized product, Patriarc, is a well-known agricultural pesticide and fertilizer used to boost crop yields and protect plants from pests.

The product is a broad-spectrum pesticide and fertiliser combination, specifically formulated to promote healthy plant growth and development. 

It’s unique formula combines insecticides to control pests, fungicides to prevent diseases, macronutrients (NPK) for plant growth, and micronutrients for enhanced plant health

Meanwhile NAFDAC has urged the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious products or activities to their offices, assuring quick action to uphold consumer safety.

“The agency underscores the importance of purchasing regulated products from genuine sources to prevent health and safety risks,” the statement read.

“The public is urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious products or activities to the nearest NAFDAC office to ensure swift regulatory action.”

The UK Health Security Agency has announced two more instances of Clade Ib Mpox, raising the nationwide total to three cases.

These recent infections have been linked to individuals living with the original case, highlighting the virus’s ability to spread quickly in settings with close contact.

According to a statement released late Monday night and accessed from the UKHSA website on Tuesday, both patients are currently under specialized treatment at Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust in London.

Despite these occurrences, health authorities assert that the overall risk to the broader UK population is still considered low.

Chief Medical Adviser at UKHSA, Prof. Susan Hopkins, addressed the situation, stating, “Mpox is very infectious in households with close contact, and so it is not unexpected to see further cases within the same household. The overall risk to the UK population remains low.”

The agency has verified that thorough measures have been implemented, ensuring that all individuals who were in close contact with the confirmed cases are being tracked and observed.

“We are working with partners to make sure all contacts of the cases are identified and contacted to reduce the risk of further spread,” added Hopkins.

Individuals are being provided with testing and vaccinations, along with guidance on essential care if symptoms arise.

Health and Social Care Secretary, Wes Streeting praised the healthcare response, remarking, “I am extremely grateful to the healthcare professionals who are carrying out incredible work to support and care for the patients affected. The overall risk to the UK population currently remains low, and the government is working alongside UKHSA and the NHS to protect the public and prevent transmission.”

Streeting confirmed that the UK government is obtaining more vaccines and providing healthcare providers with the necessary resources and guidance to respond effectively.

Meanwhile, NHS national director for vaccination and screening, Steve Russell, reiterated the preparedness of health services: “The NHS is fully prepared to respond to the first confirmed case of this clade of mpox. Since mpox first became present in England, local services have pulled out all the stops to vaccinate those eligible, with tens of thousands in priority groups having already come forward to get protected. If required, the NHS has plans in place to expand the roll-out of vaccines quickly in line with supply.”

This follows the initial identification of Clade Ib mpox in the UK on October 30, 2024, representing the first occurrence of this variant in the nation.

The initial case involves a patient who had recently visited African nations with ongoing outbreaks and is currently receiving care at the High Consequence Infectious Diseases unit at the Royal Free Hospital.

“It is thanks to our surveillance that we have been able to detect this virus,” noted Hopkins.

“This is the first time we have detected this clade of mpox in the UK, though other cases have been confirmed abroad. We are working rapidly to trace close contacts and reduce the risk of any potential spread.”

UKHSA’s technical briefings and collaboration with international health organizations are integral components of a continuous approach to track and manage the outbreak.

As the public awaits further updates, health authorities urge vigilance. “While the risk of catching mpox in the UK remains low, it’s crucial to stay informed and seek medical guidance if symptoms, such as a rash or fever, appear,” emphasised Russell.

The statement indicates that the UKHSA’s active approach persists as they release technical updates and evaluate containment measures to safeguard the public during this changing scenario.

Hard drugs, also known as illicit or street drugs, are substances that are illegal to possess, use, or distribute. These substances can have serious and potentially life-threatening consequences, and it’s essential to understand the risks and dangers associated with them.

What are Hard Drugs?

Hard drugs include a range of substances, such as:

1. Heroin: A highly addictive opioid that can lead to overdose and death.
2. Cocaine: A powerful stimulant that can cause heart problems, strokes, and seizures.
3. Methamphetamine: A highly addictive stimulant that can cause paranoia, anxiety, and aggression.
4. LSD: A hallucinogenic substance that can cause altered perceptions, anxiety, and psychosis.
5. Ecstasy: A synthetic substance that can cause increased heart rate, blood pressure, and body temperature.

Risks and Consequences of Hard Drugs

Using hard drugs can lead to a range of serious health problems, including:

1. Addiction: Hard drugs can be highly addictive, leading to physical dependence and withdrawal symptoms.
2. Overdose: Taking too much of a hard drug can lead to overdose, which can be fatal.
3. Infectious diseases: Sharing needles or other equipment can lead to the transmission of infectious diseases, such as HIV and hepatitis.
4. Mental health problems: Hard drugs can cause anxiety, depression, and psychosis.
5. Criminal activity: Using hard drugs can lead to involvement in criminal activity, such as theft and violence.

Signs and Symptoms of Hard Drug Use

If you suspect that someone is using hard drugs, look out for the following signs and symptoms:

1. Changes in behavior: Sudden changes in behavior, such as mood swings, irritability, and paranoia.
2. Physical symptoms: Signs of physical dependence, such as withdrawal symptoms, weight loss, and poor hygiene.
3. Financial problems: Unexplained financial problems, such as missing money or valuables.
4. Social problems: Social problems, such as relationship breakdowns and loss of friends.

Getting Help for Hard Drug Addiction

If you or someone you know is struggling with hard drug addiction, it’s essential to seek help. Here are some steps you can take:

1. Seek professional help: Consult a doctor, therapist, or counselor who specializes in addiction.
2. Join a support group: Join a support group, such as Narcotics Anonymous, to connect with others who are struggling with addiction.
3. Consider rehab: Consider entering a rehabilitation program to receive treatment and support.

Hard drugs can have serious and potentially life-threatening consequences. It’s essential to understand the risks and dangers associated with these substances and to seek help if you or someone you know is struggling with addiction.