BLANTYRE-(MaraviPost)-Malawi is losing 570 women annually to maternal sepsis infections, a condition that can be prevented and treated with proper healthcare measures.
A recent study by the Malawi Liverpool Wellcome, in collaboration with Kamuzu University of Health Sciences, sheds light on this alarming issue.
The study, conducted between 2023 and 2024, reveals that simple measures such as hand hygiene models, antibiotic use, and early detection can reduce the risk of infection by 30 percent.
However, the country’s health authorities are now facing a daunting task to curb these preventable deaths.
Judith Nkwaira, Director of Emergency Medical Services in the Ministry of Health, has pledged the government’s commitment to strengthening healthcare facilities to combat the infection.
“The government will employ interventions and strategies to fight the infection,” she said.
Associate Professor Luis Gadama, an APT Sepsis Researcher, emphasized the importance of hand hygiene compliance within maternal health facilities.
“Hand hygiene compliance is an effective way of saving at least 70% of women from acquiring maternal infection-related mortality or severe morbidity,” he said.
The study’s findings come as no surprise, given that maternal sepsis is a leading cause of maternal mortality in Malawi, accounting for 24.8% of all such deaths.
In fact, research has shown that sepsis is the third most prevalent cause of maternal mortality globally, following postpartum hemorrhage and preeclampsia.
The Malawi Liverpool Wellcome’s APT-Sepsis study has already shown promising results, with a 32% reduction in severe maternal infections and deaths in Uganda and Malawi.
The intervention focuses on three key areas: hand hygiene, infection prevention and management, and identification and treatment of sepsis.
As Malawi strives to reduce maternal mortality, experts urge the government to prioritize healthcare infrastructure, provider training, and standardized protocols.
The government must also address the root causes of maternal sepsis, including delayed treatment, inadequate monitoring, and mistreatment of patients.
With concerted efforts from healthcare authorities, researchers, and communities, Malawi can overcome this challenge and ensure safer motherhood for all women.
