Allergy and immunology specialists in Africa are urging that allergic diseases be recognized as a public health priority, highlighting that millions suffer from underdiagnosed and poorly managed conditions. This call to action coincides with World Allergy Week 2026, as the African Alliance for Allergy and Clinical Immunology (AFRICALLI) emphasizes the need for improved care and recognition of these health issues across the continent.

Vaccine uptake has been declining in Brazil and South Africa over the last decade, reversing gains in protecting children against vaccine-preventable diseases like measles and polio. Both countries have universal and free childhood immunisation programmes, yet Brazil has seen a drop of 10-20 percentage points in coverage since 2016, remaining below the 95% target for routine vaccines. South Africa's vaccination coverage has also steadily declined since 2015.

The article discusses the history of Appolonia, an African kingdom that resisted the transatlantic slave trade, which was a complex and highly commercialized global enterprise from the 16th to the 19th century. It highlights that the events of this period cannot be simplified into a narrative of just perpetrators and victims, as over 12.5 million Africans were dehumanized and commodified, while also noting the limitations faced by Europeans in terms of geographical knowledge and immunity to diseases.

In Nigeria, poverty and malnutrition are significant factors contributing to preventable childhood killer diseases such as malaria and pneumonia, despite the availability of vaccines. The situation highlights the challenges faced in addressing these health issues effectively, as socioeconomic conditions hinder access to necessary healthcare and nutrition.

The article discusses the long-standing human behaviors that hinder progress, referencing the biblical story of lepers saved by Jesus to illustrate the theme of ingratitude. It argues that Uganda's efforts in combating Ebola deserve greater recognition and appreciation, suggesting that societal attitudes towards such contributions need to evolve over time.

The article discusses the historical context of South Africa's colonization, starting with Bartolomeu Dias's voyage in 1488, which marked the first European navigation around the southern tip of Africa. It explores the reasons why South Africa did not become a Portuguese colony despite early European exploration.