By Owen Nyaka
LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-Prisons are a moving population with inmates coming in and going- out daily, including those attending court sessions.
This dynamic nature of the population underscores the need for a multi-sectoral approach to combat Tuberculosis (TB).
Lilongwe Prison public relations officer (PRO) Seargent Stephano Zimba says currently with 21 inmates being diagnosed with TB at Maula, all males they have implemented measures to ensure inmates receive adequate food, and there are no days when inmates sleep without food.
“Our prison houses 3, 242 inmates as of last month. We have seen 12 new TB diagnosed cases including four (4) from young offenders’ section and 1 which is transferred case from Ntchisi district,” says Zimba.
He, said they have taken a multi-faceted approach by initial screening and isolation in which new inmates are screened and isolated, if necessary, cell mass screening where peer educators conduct screening in cells. Regular screening and testing using GeneXpert machine for accurate diagnosis is also done.
TB Guidelines have been posted in cells for awareness, there is a demarcated area for TB-infected visitors and that visitors are being asked at the gate if they are coughing or are diagnosed with TB to prevent transmission and there are mass screening plans to take place soon.
Seargent Zimba however say funding is a complex issue across government departments, including the prison department.
While Malawi prison feels the allocated funding is sufficient on paper, implementation on the ground reveals challenges.
“We urge collective action to combat TB. Given the dynamic nature of our population, community involvement and screening at police stations can help identify cases earlier. Collaboration and partnerships between the prison department, healthcare providers, and community organizations are essential for effective TB control strategies,” said Zimba.
He appeals for support for inmates to reduce the stigma associated with TB. Zimba is of the view that Community support can make a significant difference in the lives of those affected. “Let us work together to combat TB,” he said.
TB in Malawi is disproportionately affecting men, with 2024 data showing that six out of every ten people diagnosed with the disease are male, according to the National Tuberculosis and Leprosy Elimination Program (NTLEP).
During the recent bi-annual meeting for journalists and faith leaders in Salima NTLEP Evaluation and Monitoring Officer Dickens Chimatiro revealed that the burden of TB among men stands at 55 percent, compared to 33 percent in women and 12 percent in children.