COVID-19 impacts greatly TB services provision-Government

As Malawi joins the rest of the world in commemorating World TB Day, National TB Control Program (NTP) has said the fight against TB in the country has been greatly compromised by corona virus pandemic.

Speaking to Radio Islam on the sidelines of the day, the Research and Key Population Lead at NTP, Dr Kruger Kaswaswa, said the pandemic has greatly threatened the progress towards ending TB.

Dr Kaswaswa said as the day is commemorated under the theme, ‘The Clock is Ticking’ there is need for joint efforts to achieve the World Health organization’s goal of ending TB by 2030.

He however called upon the public to play a role in seeking medical care early when they experience any signs of TB.

Meanwhile principal secretary responsible for administration in the ministry of health Bestone Chisamile says “in the era of covid-19 pandemic health facilities have seen a reduction in numbers of people seeking TB diagnostic and treatment services.”

Chisamile says Malawians should not focus on fighting the pandemic at the expense of TB medical resources, supplies and attention because the disease is still killing many people.