REDUCTION OF TB CASES IN MINING SECTOR

 By: Innocencia Mukwepere.

The Chief Inspector of Explosive in the Ministry of mining, Zuti Liabunya has confirmed the reduction of Tuberculosis (TB) cases in the sector compared to the past years, as more cases were detected.

Zuti Liabunya

Liabunya explained this after a three-day workshop and tour held in Lilongwe organized by ministry of Mines in collaboration https://www.nyasatimes.com/ministry-highlights-tb-reduction-in-mining-sector/ with Ministries of Labour and Health on Occupational Safety, Health, Environment and Community (OSHEC).

“We have intensified awareness to the miners and the community themselves which has played a major part in the reduction of incidences of TB,” he said.

He added that, surveillance in the mining areas have contributed to the reduction

The principle of Kamuzu central hospital, Dr. Yusuf Mtende, acknowledged that the country is doing well in fighting against TB in mines.

“The Ministry of Health through National Tuberculosis and Leprosy Elimination Program (NTLEP) have introduced mobile vans to move around mining areas as well as encouraging people to go for screening,” Mtende emphasized.

The Principal further said efforts are still underway to mobilize everyone around mining areas to be screened and if diagnosed with the disease should immediately be isolated for treatment.

“It is curable if a person with the disease is diagnosed earlier to start treatment,” he added.

In his remarks, Dr Mtende commended Southern Africa TB and Health System Support (SATBSS) for introducing the program to fight against TB in the Mining Sector.