The Kano State government has banned the administration of intravenous (IV) fluid infusion and blood transfusion at patent medicine stores across the state, an official disclosed.

The acting executive secretary of the Kano State Private Health Institutions Management Agency (PHIMA), Khadijah Hussein-Sa’id, announced the directive during a sensitisation workshop for proprietors and medical directors of private health facilities in Kano.

She said patent medicine stores were legally classified as non-clinical retail outlets and were not authorised to perform invasive medical procedures, administer IV fluids, or conduct blood transfusions.

Ms Hussein-Sa’id said the directive aimed to protect residents from unsafe and illegal medical practices and strengthen regulation of private health facilities in the state.

“Any patent medicine store or unauthorised facility found administering IV fluids or conducting blood transfusions will face immediate closure and other sanctions in accordance with relevant laws and regulations,” she said.

The acting executive secretary said accredited health facilities must administer blood transfusions and IV fluid therapies only under the supervision of qualified medical professionals.

She added that the measure aligns with the state government’s priority of protecting residents’ health and lives.

Ms Hussein-Sa’id urged the public to remain vigilant and report patent medicine stores or other unauthorised facilities engaging in the prohibited practices.

She stated that complaints could be submitted directly to the PHIMA office at Magaji Rumfa, with supporting evidence such as photographs, receipts, or other proof of the services provided.

She said PHIMA would continue to strengthen the regulation of private health institutions and take decisive action against unsafe, illegal, and unhygienic medical practices.

The acting executive secretary urged operators of private health facilities to comply with the directive and follow approved standards to improve healthcare delivery in the state.

(NAN)