Nigeria's government has issued a caution to its citizens, particularly those with underlying medical conditions, about the potential health risks associated with traveling through Ethiopia's main international airport due to its high altitude. The warning comes after the foreign ministry in Abuja reported that 16 Nigerians with pre-existing health problems died this year while transiting through Addis Ababa.
High Altitude Hub
Bole International Airport in Addis Ababa sits at an elevation of 2,334 meters (7,657 feet) above sea level, making the Ethiopian capital one of the highest in the world. The airport is a major travel hub, connecting millions of passengers annually between Africa, the Middle East, and Asia.
The Nigerian foreign ministry highlighted that individuals with cardiovascular and respiratory conditions are at an increased risk when passing through such high-altitude locations. The ministry did not release the identities of the deceased travelers or specify the exact causes of death.
Call for Caution
In its statement, the ministry urged anyone with a health condition that could be exacerbated by high altitudes to exercise caution when planning a journey via Addis Ababa and to seek appropriate medical advice beforehand. It also emphasized that it does not intend to discourage Nigerians from traveling through the Ethiopian capital.
Medical experts explain that high-altitude environments can be hazardous for people with heart and lung diseases because the air is thinner, meaning less oxygen enters the bloodstream. This forces the heart to work harder to supply oxygen to the body's tissues, which can sometimes lead to heart failure in those with existing conditions, according to the American Heart Association.
Even healthy individuals may experience adverse effects such as dizziness, fatigue, and shortness of breath at high altitudes, which can complicate matters for those with lung disease, studies indicate.
Travel Advisory
The advisory serves as a reminder for travelers to consider their health status before embarking on journeys that involve high-altitude destinations. Nigerians with chronic health issues are advised to consult their doctors and take necessary precautions to mitigate risks during transit through Addis Ababa.
