Health experts in Bauchi say respiratory illnesses such as asthma and pneumonia, remain major contributors to child mortality, accounting for about 15 percent of deaths, especially in rural areas, without nearby hospitals, equipped with oxygen plants.
This was revealed during an assessment of child survival and mortality in the northern part of Bauchi State.
For years, infant and child mortality has remained high in Bauchi North.
A recent survey identified respiratory diseases like asthma and pneumonia, alongside cholera and diarrhoea, as leading causes of death, particularly in areas lacking medical oxygen facilities.
Dr Bello Idris, Medical Officer at General Hospital Azare, in Katagum Local Government Area, said the challenge had persisted for years, until the intervention of the Canadian Government, through the United Nations Children’s Fund, (UNICEF), and the Immigration Health Surcharge, (IHS), which provided a medical oxygen plant.
He confirmed that the facility has significantly reduced child deaths in the region.
The oxygen plant, donated about two years ago, after the COVID-19 pandemic, was part of efforts
to address shortages of life-saving oxygen in hospitals.
Dr Mohammed Alkali, Executive Chairman of the Bauchi State Hospital Management Board, explained that the initiative, implemented in partnership with UNICEF, IHS and the state government, has brought relief to many families, by providing affordable, and accessible oxygen therapy.
The United Nations Children’s Fund, (UNICEF) Health Specialist, Dr David Audu, stressed that oxygen is a vital component of life.
He notes that the intervention has reduced child deaths from respiratory infections by around 15 per cent, benefitting the children and the entire community.
With the impact of the oxygen plant already evident, experts say, sustaining and maintaining the facility remains crucial for Bauchi State and the benefiting communities, to further reduce child mortality, and improve survival rates.
Editor : Ena Agbanoma
