LAGOS, NIGERIA — The World Health Organization and the Action Against Sudden Death Initiative are joining forces for MedSafetyWeek 2026. The campaign is scheduled to hold from November 2 to 8, 2026.
The initiative aims to remind everyone that reporting side effects helps make medicines safer for all.
What is a Side Effect?
A side effect is an unwanted reaction that may happen when you take medicine. It could be a skin rash, an upset stomach, trouble sleeping, or changes in your mood.
Side effects can appear soon after starting a medicine. They can also appear after taking it for a long time. Sometimes, they occur when combining different medicines. Learn more
Why Reporting Matters
Even carefully tested medicines can cause unexpected reactions. That is why doctors and scientists continue checking their safety after they become available.
The campaign emphasizes that every report helps scientists spot possible risks and protect others. This is why reporting is critical.
What You Can Do
If you notice something unusual, there are steps you should take.
First, talk to a healthcare professional. They can advise you on what to do.
Second, report suspected side effects through your country’s medicine safety reporting system. This is the official channel for reporting.
Third, report even if you are unsure the medicine caused them. It is better to report than to ignore a potential issue.
The Goal of MedSafetyWeek
The goal of MedSafetyWeek is to raise awareness about the importance of reporting side effects. It also aims to encourage patients and healthcare professionals to participate in the reporting process.
The campaign is supported by the WHO and AASDI. It is part of broader efforts to improve medicine safety globally.
What This Means
The initiative highlights the importance of patient vigilance. It also underscores the role of reporting in ensuring that medicines remain safe for everyone.
For Nigerians, the campaign is a reminder to take side effects seriously. It also encourages them to use the available reporting systems.
What Happens Next
The campaign will run from November 2 to 8, 2026. It will feature awareness campaigns across various media platforms.
For now, the focus is on spreading the message. The organisers are urging the public to participate actively.
Don’t ignore side effects. Report them.
Join AASDI Health awareness on https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Vaz5xUf6mYPOJyRYa93H
