back to top
POSTED IN

Crossborder migration increases number of TB defaulters in Dedza

Dedza District TB and Leprosy Coordinator, Tennson Kaunda, has expressed worry over high default rate of TB patients from treatment mainly due to crossing of border to Mozambique.


Kaunda disclosed this when a group of Journalists under National TB and Leprosy Elimination Program (NTLEP) network visited the district to appreciate the fight against the disease.

He noted that there are a number of people who come from Mozambique seeking medical attention at the hospital but do not adhere to treatment.

“In line with taking their TB  treatment, others decide to return to their homes and do not come back to finish the prescription,” he said.

Tennson Kaunda, Dedza District TB and Leprosy Coordinator

Kaunda further explained that those on Malawi side are easy to follow, but those who have crossed to the neighbouring country are difficult to be traced.

Dedza District TB and Leprosy Coordinator revealed that the hospital has so far reached their counterparts in Mozambique on how they can work together to fight the vice.

On interventions, Kaunda elaborated that, “We want to sensitize the public around the borders together with our Mozambique counterparts on the negativity of defaulting TB treatment.” 

Under the World Bank’s Southern Africa TB and Health Systems Support project (SATBSS), Kaunda explained, the two sides managed to conduct a cross-border meeting to find the way forward on how to fight the disease together in the borders.

Dedza District Hospital is currently using a mobile van to intensify screening and diagnosis of TB in the border areas of Malawi.

Related articles

Attorney General still optimistic on recovery of K8bn from National Bus Services

Malawi’s top legal advisor, Attorney General Thabo Chakaka Nyirenda, has disclosed that the government is working hard to recover over K8 billion the National Bus Services Limited reportedly benefitted from state-owned bus depots across the country.

Chakwera salutes Catholic bishops for giving him wise counsel

President Dr. Lazarus McCarthy Chakwera has commended the Catholic Church in Malawi for playing a key role the promoting democracy and good governance by giving State Presidents wise counsel while at the same time standing firm in truth.

Chakwera names Phalombe District Hospital after freedom fighter John Chilembwe Hospital

President Dr. Lazarus McCarthy Chakwera has changed the name of Phalombe District Hospital to John Chilembwe Hospital honour of the martyred freedom fighter, Reverend John Chilembwe.

Smoking pregnant women at risk of delivering stillbirths, miscarriage and premature birth

A study has established that pregnant women who smoke (tobacco) are at a greater risk of delivering stillbirths, premature births and/or miscarriage while passive smokers (exposure of the non-smoking mother to second-hand smoke) run the risk of harming the fetus.