A Professor of Microbiology of the Abia State University, Uturu (ABSU) Professor Nkechi Chuks Nwachukwu has advocated for the conscious use of some God given fruits and leaves for healing and to boost immune system against fungi infections.
Delivering the 68th Inaugural Lecture of the University, on the topic “Fungi, the Hidden Killers: Emerging Issues”, at the University’s auditorium, the cerebral Professor of Microbiology identified such leaves and fruits to include garlics, turmeric, gingers, utazi, scent leaves and other plants with the capacity to boost the immune system and well being of the people.
According to her, most fungal infections are ‘hidden’ occurring as a consequence of other health problems such as Asthma, AIDs, Cancer and others, affecting millions of people all over the world with the potential to terminate the life of a person, hence described as ‘Hidden Killers.’ She further revealed that human immune system is under serious attack due to the manufacturing and selling of fake products and called for enhanced public intervention by government through strengthening public health laboratories, sustaining investments in research development and innovation.
She also advocated the establishment of a fungal culture collection centre in Abia State, and increased awareness of fungal diseases to improve early recognition and reduce delays in diagnoses and treatment. The Vice-Chancellor Professor Onyemachi Ogbulu in his speech, commended Professor Nkechi Nwachukwu for exploring the world of micro organisms affecting human existence which has become a challenge to health care professionals.
‘Our work as academics cannot be complete without impacting on our immediate community’ the Vice-Chancellor added, and challenged other academics particularly in the health and allied sciences to initiate research in their fields, and assured of the support of his administration to attract sponsorship for such research works that will improve healthcare delivery”, Ogbulu said.
Also, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor Professor Ogbonna Onuoha commended the Inaugural Lecturer for painstakingly observing the tenets of Inaugural Lectures in her delivery, pointing out that the administration of the Vice-Chancellor has deepened the ‘town and gown’ relationship mandate of the University through his unprecedented support for the sustained Inaugural Lectures series in the University. Highpoint of the event was the presentation of a plaque to Professor Nkechi Chuks Nwachukwu by the Vice-Chancellor on behalf of the University and her admittance into the hall of Distinguished Professors of the University.
