By Oscar Kamwendo
Nsanje, Mana : Sexually Transmitted Infections Coordinator for Nsanje District, John Maganizo on Friday revealed that the district has registered few cases of Sexually Transmitted Infections (STI) in the first quarter of this year.
Maganizo made the revelations in an interview with Mana at Nsanje district hospital where he attributed the low cases as a result of concerted efforts by various stakeholders in the district.
“From January to March 2021, we recorded 2242 cases, and this year we have recorded 1691 during the same period,” Maganizo said.
He said syphilis is the highest current with recorded 470 clients from January to March this year alone.
He also revealed that among the most affected groups adolescent, young women and men who are in the most sexually active group.
Maganizo said the district main hospital recorded 393 STI cases which was the highest figure as compared to the 15 facilities in the district.
“Nsanje District hospital has a big catchment area, with many hotspot areas like Lodges, Bars and the Port, where many people come to indulge in various activities that result in STIs by the end of the day,” Maganizo said,
However he said despite, registering low cases, the fight against STIs in the district is facing numerous challenges.
“Lack of trained STIs providers in Private facilities, few partners in the fight against STIs, lack of regularly mentorship and supervision programs
“Major challenge is out of stock of STIs supplies such as syphilis test kits. We are still robbing to our partners and District Heath Management Team to increase funding, scale up trainings, and increase drugs and syphilis kits,” he added.
Maganizo further said the district is providing STl services in all 15 facilities in Nsanje, of which in 14 facilities there is one trained STI services provider except Ndamela and private facilities.