Kano government bans IV fluids, blood transfusions at medicine stores

The Kano State government has issued a directive prohibiting the administration of intravenous (IV) fluids and blood transfusions at patent medicine stores across the state. The ban aims to enhance patient safety and regulate healthcare practices.

Khadijah Hussein-Sa’id, Acting Executive Secretary of the Kano State Private Health Institutions Management Agency (PHIMA), announced the directive during a workshop for private health facility operators. She emphasized that patent medicine stores are legally defined as non-clinical retail outlets and lack authorization for invasive medical procedures, including IV fluid administration and blood transfusions.

"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," Hussein-Sa’id stated. She stressed that such procedures must only occur in accredited health facilities under the supervision of qualified medical professionals.

The measure aligns with the state government's commitment to protecting residents' health. PHIMA urged the public to report any non-compliant facilities, providing evidence such as photographs or receipts. The agency vowed to continue strengthening the regulation of private health institutions and taking decisive action against unsafe and illegal medical practices.

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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.