Mobile Van Finds 21 TB Cases at Malawi Border
Malawi now operates 12 such mobile diagnostic vans to increase active tuberculosis case finding across the country.
KARONGA, Malawi— A mobile diagnostic van has registered 21 cases of tuberculosis since September at the Songwe border crossing into Malawi, highlighting its effectiveness in active case finding, officials said, writes Meclina Chirwa.
The Songwe border mobile van has been "paramount and instrumental" in detecting TB and leprosy cases at the remote border post, according to coordinator Mike Gopani.
"Previously we had difficulties especially in the border posts, but now it's very easy to screen and diagnose those entering Malawi via the Songwe border," Gopani said.
"The response has been impressive and people around have realized the need of going for TB screening."
Gopani said the van still needs an X-ray machine to aid in diagnosis.
The National TB and Leprosy Elimination Program has trained health workers on using the mobile units.
"The purpose of these trainings is to equip health workers with knowledge regarding leprosy," said Paul Chiwenkha, the program's assistant community and mobilization officer.
"In this case we are focusing much on mobile vans which are moving in the communities to screen and diagnose people."
Malawi now operates 12 such mobile diagnostic vans to increase active tuberculosis case finding across the country.
TB is a major public health challenge in Malawi.
Good news 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥