16 Nigerians Die in Addis Ababa, FG Issues Travel Warning

 The federal government has issued a travel advisory warning Nigerians of health risks associated with Ethiopia’s high altitude following the deaths of 16 citizens in the country.

 

In the advisory issued Saturday by Oluwafemi Adeniyi, foreign ministry spokesperson, the federal government urged Nigerians with pre-existing medical conditions to exercise caution and seek appropriate medical advice when planning journeys involving transit through Addis Ababa.

 

Addis Ababa is situated approximately 2,355 metres (7,726 feet) above sea level, where lower atmospheric pressure results in reduced oxygen availability.

 

The altitude can come with dry air, greater ultraviolet exposure, and increased fluid loss; these can worsen headaches and fatigue.

 

 

Symptoms can range from mild discomfort, like headaches and shortness of breath, to more serious issues, such as brain swelling, which can be life-threatening.

 

While healthy individuals are generally able to adapt to reduced oxygen levels in high-altitude environments within a few days, persons with certain pre-existing medical ailments, particularly cardiovascular and respiratory conditions, may experience increased health risks in such conditions.

 

This year, Nigeria’s diplomatic mission in Addis Ababa recorded 16 deaths involving citizens transiting through the city, reportedly linked to health complications associated with the high altitude, according to the statement.

 

 

The statement noted that the advisory is not intended to discourage Nigerians from transiting through or travelling to Addis Ababa.

 

“Rather, it aims to ensure that persons who may be medically vulnerable to the physiological effects of high altitudes are adequately informed and encouraged to take necessary precautions before embarking on their journeys,” the statement reads.

 

The government urged citizens to make informed decisions during travel.