Dry, sell flood-damaged drugs pose grave health risk to community- Expert

Medical expert warned that drugs exposed to floodwater may absorb bacteria, mould, and other contaminants, “The desperate actions of some traders may stem from economic pressures, but the potential harm to public health far outweighs any financial benefits,” says Dr Suleiman Muhammad Farusi, Publicity Secretary, National Medical Association Borno State.

Dr Suleiman said the recent floods that swept through parts of Maiduguri have left devastating consequences, particularly for the health sector, especially the worst affected area is the Gamboru market, a major hub for the sale of drugs and medical consumables.
The market, known for its bustling trade in pharmaceuticals and medical supplies, was submerged in floodwater, leading to serious concerns about the safety and quality of products being sold.

He explained for medical consumables like bandages, syringes, and IV fluids, any exposure to floodwater renders them unsafe, as they could introduce infections or other health complications when used. Additionally,  floodwater in urban areas often contains a mixture of sewage, chemicals, and industrial waste, making any submerged item a potential carrier of dangerous pathogens,

“Despite these risks, reports have emerged that some traders in the Gamboru market have been attempting to salvage and sell flood-damaged drugs. Allegedly, these marketers have resorted to drying these compromised drugs under the sun and selling them to unsuspecting customers. Such practices, if true, pose a grave health risk to the community. Not only are these drugs likely to be ineffective, but they could also cause serious health complications due to contamination or degraded potency.

This alarming practice raises questions about the regulatory oversight of the pharmaceutical trade in Maiduguri, especially in the wake of disasters like floods.

“As the city works to recover from the flooding, there is a need for a community-driven response that includes both traders and consumers. Public health authorities should engage market leaders in Gamboru to create awareness of the dangers of selling flood-damaged products. Training programs could help traders understand the long-term benefits of upholding safety standards over short-term profits. On the other hand, consumers must be vigilant in checking for signs of damage or unusual packaging when purchasing drugs, and they should be encouraged to report suspicious products.

“The alleged practice of drying and reselling submerged drugs is a disturbing trend that must be addressed immediately. Regulatory bodies, market leaders, and the public must collaborate to ensure that health and safety standards are maintained, even in the face of adversity. Without swift and decisive action, the people of Maiduguri could face a health crisis far more insidious than the flood itself.