Health

Sleeping With Dog: Lady risks infection that may spread to the rest of the world — Experts

Published

2 years ago

May 12, 2022 12:48 pm

BodexNG

Social media platforms were awash with the video of a young Nigerian lady having s3x with a dog. Since then there have been questions about the act which many have described as ‘unclean or taboo’.

Meanwhile, medical experts are warning that such act could spark off emerging or remerging infections in the country.

According to the experts who spoke with Sunday Vanguard, s3x with animals is not only unclean but a potential source of health-related catastrophe.

Before the recent event, the prevalence of humans resorting to having carnal affairs including erotic sexual intercourse with animals such as sheep, cows and dogs has become worrisome. Not too long ago, there was a case of a video where a young man was seen having sex with a cow in a farm.

According to a former Chairman, Lagos State Chapter of the Nigerian Veterinary Medical Association, NVMA, Dr. Alao Mobolaji, the lady’s indiscretion in the dog sex video may lead to an outbreak of infectious diseases of zoonotic origin.

Lamenting increasing sexual interaction between animals and human beings, he expressed worry that there is a strong likelihood that unknown diseases may begin to emerge.

Mobolaji, who is the National Treasurer, NVMA, regretted that, to date, the world is yet to ascertain where the Ebola virus emerged from and that of coronavirus, adding, “There are traces that they are from animals to humans and, because of that, we need to be very careful of this trend.” According to him, apart from the emergence of diseases, individuals can also contract zoonotic diseases that are transmitted from animal to human.

He regretted that Nigeria has no legislation prohibiting such act but said: “In animal law of Lagos State, there is no provision for such act.

“Recently Animal Bill was passed into law but it only addresses the management of animal data and keeping of dangerous animals around us, no part addresses sexual intercourse between animal and man.”

Also speaking to Sunday Vanguard, a researcher and public health scientist, Dr. Casmir Ifeanyi, who described the lady’s action as a shame, said zoonotic diseases are increasingly being incriminated at both epidemic and pandemic proportions.

Noting that concerns are rife and heightened as Nigerians are now apprehensive especially over the implications of the lady’s act in terms of emerging diseases and its spread among the population, he said: “A school of thought holds that the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) can be traced to the mingling of humans and monkey.

“Of course, we are very conversant with the much dreaded monkey pox and Ebola –these are emerging fatal viral haemorrhagic fever diseases of animal origin afflicting humans today.

“Typically, sexually transmitted disease of animal origin has been documented to possibly infect and afflict humans who unwholesomely mingle with especially dogs.

“Canine brucellosis is an infectious and zoonotic disease caused by brucella canis which has been reported worldwide, and is a major public health concern due to close contact between dogs and humans.

“This abounds in the contaminated fluids such as semen, urine and vaginal secretions from infected dogs.

“In humans, the brucellosis disease is associated with a febrile syndrome, commonly with non-specific symptoms including splenomegaly, fatigue and weakness”.

Continuing, Ifeanyi, who is also a former National Publicity Secretary, Association of Medical Laboratory Scientists of Nigeria, AMLSN, said the implications and the likelihood of common diseases associated with humans sleeping with animals including dogs, as shown in the viral video of the lady who claimed she slept with the dog and earned N1, 700,000, were very far.

“Though Nigerians are much more concerned about the emergence of infection and other public health-related challenges there are lots more associated with bestiality”, he stated.

“The psycho-social and emotional issues are also daunting. Animals don’t consent to sex with humans. An animal does not ‘kiss or tell’ their expectations in any given way. “So, what is the fascination? Is it just for money or is there some cultic undertone?”

Querying why people desire and consummate sex with animals, he lamented that such ugly indulgence continues to gain ground amongst young people, hence the need Nigerians should begin to consider whether the increased focus on sexual attention and activity might be due to sexual abuse earlier in life or outright mental derangement.

“Sex with animals is not only unclean but a potential source of health-related catastrophe and even death”, the expert said.

“Some years ago, an expatriate at a construction giant in Life Camp, Abuja allegedly played host to a young lady and paid her handsomely to entertain him by having sex with his foreign bred dog. “Shortly after the escapade, the lady in question died in her suburb residence in Karmo.

“According to medical and veterinary literature, a number of animal diseases are transmissible to humans and these are termed zoonotic diseases”.

On animals impregnating humans, Ifeanyi said it was not possible due to the differential in the number of chromosomes and differences in the key genes on different chromosomes.

“So it would be very difficult to get the genetic material in sperm to match up with that in a human egg”, he said.

“The foregoing is more theoretical than the reality. Sex with animals such as dogs has been fingered as the cause for the birth of some monster-like beings in the past.

“It is widely believed that human-animal intercourse can in some cases lead to such humanoid cattle offspring.

“Although it is scientifically controversial, human sperm can impregnate animals, especially within the very few species that can interbreed, there are not enough reasons to have sex with animals.”

According to him, the absence of sanctions for such beastly behaviour in our laws can be largely blamed for the rising indulgence in bestiality among young Nigerians.

“Government at all levels and our different religious authorities must step up action and activities that will help stem this new wave of absurdity in our society, “he stated.

Ifeanyi regretted that it was appalling that the absurdity is fast becoming entrenched in a highly religious country like Nigeria.

The expert, who noted that the bestiality was adjudged as taboo and/or illegal sexual contact activity in many climes, said the challenge remains the apparent dearth of the legal framework in most places including Nigeria to help curb such societal ill.

“Regrettably, neither the Nigerian government nor the various lofty religious institutions are yet to take drastic steps to curtail this ugly menace”, Ifeanyi stated.

According to the World Health Organisation, WHO, zoonosis is an infectious disease that has jumped from a non-human animal to humans.

Zoonotic pathogens may be bacterial, viral or parasitic, or may involve unconventional agents and can spread to humans through direct contact or through food, water or the environment.

They represent a major public health problem around the world due to our close relationship with animals in agriculture, as companions and in the natural environment. The WHO report also states that Zoonoses comprise a large percentage of all newly identified infectious diseases as well as many existing ones. Some diseases, such as HIV, began as zoonosis but later mutated into human-only strains. Other zoonoses can cause recurring disease outbreaks such as Ebola virus disease and salmonellosis. Still others, such as the novel coronavirus that causes COVID-19 have the potential to cause global pandemics.

Health

Five benefits of drinking Okra water

Published

5 days ago

April 14, 2024 9:16 am

BodexNG

Of recent, the trend of drinking okra water has gained traction backed with compelling evidence of its numerous health benefits.

In this article, we dive into the world of okra water and uncover five amazing key benefits of incorporating okra water into your daily diet, thereby unlocking the nutritional power hidden within:

Improved digestive health
Okra water is rich in soluble fiber, which aids digestion by promoting regular bowel movement and preventing constipation. It contains a gel like substance called mucilage that soothes and coats the digestive tract, reducing inflammation and easing symptoms of gastrointestinal discomfort. regular consumption of okra water can contribute to a healthier digestive system .

Weight Loss Management

Okra is low in calories and contains high fiber content, which can help make one fuller for longer . The soluble fiber in okra water helps increase feelings of fullness reducing appetite as well as unnecessary cravings. By including okra water into a balanced diet, individuals can support their weight loss goal in a sustainable manner.

Blood Sugar regulation

If you are watching your blood sugar levels or have a loved one doing so, this benefit of okra water would be really helpful as it tends to have potential benefits for blood sugar regulation. Okra contains soluble fiber, which can slow down the absorption of sugar in the digestive system, helping to stabilize blood sugar levels . By incorporating okra water into your diet, you may experience more consistent blood sugar levels and reduce the risk of complications associated with diabetes.

Heart Health Promotion

Okra is rich in nutrients like fiber, antioxidants and vitamins that contribute to a healthy heart. The fiber content in okra can help lower cholesterol levels, while the antioxidants can help reduce inflammation and protect against heart disease. However, it’s important to remember that okra water alone is not a magic solution. A balanced diet, regular exercise, and overall healthy lifestyle are key for promoting heart health.

Skin and Hair Benefits

Okra water contains vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C and biotin, which can indeed benefit both skin and hair health. Vitamin C acts as an antioxidant, helping to protect the skin from oxidative damage caused by free radicals, thereby promoting healthier skin. Biotin, also known as vitamin B7, supports the health of hair by promoting stronger, thicker strands. Incorporating okra water into your diet or using it in beauty treatments may provide a natural way to enhance the health and appearance of your skin and hair.

With this benefits of okra water stated, if you happen to be a naysayer to okra water, you should definitely think about its benefits.

Health

Symptoms, risk factors, treatment — what to know about throat cancer

Published

6 days ago

April 13, 2024 12:19 pm

BodexNG

On Thursday, Ogbonnaya Onu, a former minister of science and technology in the Muhammadu Buhari administration, died aged 72.

Reports suggest that Onu, who was the first civilian governor of Abia state, grappled with throat cancer before his demise.

If you came across the news, you may have wondered for a quick minute about throat cancer and maybe imagined how the symptoms would physically manifest. Perhaps you imagined a lesion or even a swollen neck.

What is throat cancer?

It refers to a type of cancer that develops in the throat, also known as the pharynx.

The human throat is a muscular tube that begins behind the nose and ends in the neck. The voice box sits below the throat and contains the vocal cords.

The two types of throat cancer are pharyngeal and laryngeal cancers, also known as cancer of the pharynx and the larynx.

What are the symptoms of throat cancer?

Symptoms of throat cancer include persistent cough, sore throat, a lump in the throat that does not heal, changes in voice, such as hoarseness or not speaking clearly, difficulty swallowing, ear pain, and sudden weight loss.

What causes throat cancer?

Throat cancer occurs when cells in the throat develop genetic mutations that cause them to grow uncontrollably. The continuous growth kills the normal cells. Then, the accumulating cells can form a tumour in the throat.

It is not clear what causes the mutation that leads to throat cancer. There are, however, factors that can increase the risk of throat cancer.

These risk factors include a family history of cancer, smoking and chewing tobacco, excessive alcohol intake, viral infections including human papillomavirus (HPV) and Epstein-Barr virus, and a diet lacking in fruits and vegetables.

How can one reduce the risk of having throat cancer?

While there are no scientifically proven ways to prevent throat cancer, there are ways to reduce its risk such as eating a diet rich in fruits and vegetables, drinking alcohol in moderation, avoiding smoking, and protecting oneself from HPV.

How is throat cancer diagnosed?

Throat cancer diagnosis involves a few steps. A physical examination will be performed in which a doctor will examine the mouth and throat.

The examination also involves a series of blood tests, while an endoscopy will be carried out.

An endoscopy is when a thin tube with a light on its end is inserted through the nose to look for abnormalities in the throat.

A chest x-ray and computerised tomography (CT) scan may also be carried out.

How is throat cancer treated?

Treatment of throat cancer will depend on the size of the tumour, whether it has spread all over the place, and the overall health of the patient.

The doctor will first need to find out what stage of cancer the individual has, that is, how far it has spread. This helps to determine the best treatment options.

Surgery may be recommended depending on the tumour size and chemotherapy may also be required.

Health

10 safety tips for boat rides

Published

1 week ago

April 11, 2024 2:16 pm

BodexNG

Water transportation, although a vital means of commuting, comes with its risks.

The recent unfortunate incident involving the Nollywood actor, Pope Odonwodo, known as Junior Pope, is a reminder of the importance of boat safety.

Pope, along with three others, lost their lives in a boat incident.

In a video posted by the late actor on his Instagram page on Wednesday, Pope, who was on a boat without a life jacket, told his followers to see how actors risk their lives to entertain them while pleading with the captain to go slowly as he shouted, “I have three children to raise.”

In the caption, he wrote, “See me lamenting… The risk we take to entertain you; crossing river 9ja yesterday with no life jacket… Na wahoooooo… Who does that ??”

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by JNR POPE ODONWODO (@jnrpope)

The actor was reported to be travelling by boat away from a film set during the shooting of a movie titled, ‘The other side of Life,’ directed by Adamma Luke.

However, in response to the tragic accident, the Actors Guild of Nigeria, led by its President, Ejezie Rollas, suspended film productions involving riverine areas and boat rides.

Additionally, actors have been advised against participating in any project associated with Luke until further notice.

This incident highlights the need for stringent safety measures when traveling by water.

In this piece, we highlights 10 crucial safety tips for boat riders to ensure a safer experience:

Wear life jackets: Always wear a properly fitting life jacket when onboard a boat. Ensure that there are enough life jackets for all passengers.
Check weather conditions: Before setting off, check weather forecasts to avoid sailing in rough or dangerous conditions that could jeopardise safety.
Follow safety instructions: Listen attentively to the boat operator or captain’s safety instructions and adhere to them diligently. Familiarise yourself with emergency procedures and the location of safety equipment onboard.
Avoid overloading: Do not exceed the boat’s weight capacity or passenger limit. Overloading can lead to instability and increase the risk of accidents.
Ensure proper boat maintenance: Regularly maintain the boat, including checking navigation lights, signaling devices, and emergency equipment like fire extinguishers and flares.
Inform others: Let someone know your boating plans, including your route and estimated return time. This information can be crucial in case of an emergency.
Be mindful of water conditions: Stay aware of water currents, tides, and potential hazards such as rocks or shallow areas. Navigate at safe speeds and exercise caution near shorelines.
Monitor fuel levels: Always carry sufficient fuel for your trip and monitor fuel levels regularly. Running out of fuel in open water can be hazardous.
Ensure children’s safety: Ensure that children wear life jackets and are supervised by adults at all times while onboard. Also, educate them about basic boating safety rules.
Avoid alcohol and intoxicants: It’s crucial to refrain from consuming alcohol or other intoxicants before or during boat rides. Being sober enables you to make sound decisions and stay alert to potential dangers.

Bodex F. Hungbo, SPMIIM is a multiple award-winning Nigerian Digital Media Practitioner, Digital Strategist, PR consultant, Brand and Event Expert, Tv Presenter, Tier-A Blogger/Influencer, and a top cobbler in Nigeria.

She has widespread experiences across different professions and skills, which includes experiences in; Marketing, Media, Broadcasting, Brand and Event Management, Administration and Management with prior stints at MTN, NAPIMS-NNPC, GLOBAL FLEET OIL AND GAS, LTV, Silverbird and a host of others