Malaria is still a threat

Despite the huge contributions done by the international communities, NGO’s and the government of Sierra Leone to eradicate malaria, one of the deadly diseases in the Sub-Region, the disease still remains a threat to most communities, and Kissy community is not exempt.

Speaking to Sierra Express Media, Mr. Banda and Mr. S. Kamara, Community Health Officers at Kissy Community Health Centre and Salunla Health Centre respectively, said that the common sickness that is always reported to their clinics is Malaria. In most cases they said they are able to treat their patients, who are mostly children. Few cases such as those that need urgent attention are transferred to the Cottage Child Health Centre.

The health officers revealed that sometimes the clinic provides common drugs when available. When not available, they refer the patients to nearby pharmacies to buy them.

According to Mr. Banda, the Kissy Health Centre lacks the facilities to admit patients; however they do observe cases for at least three days before they are referred. He advised the public to learn to live in clean environments, and get and use the bed nets. “These are the most effective ways according to him this deadly sickness could be prevented,” Kamara said.

Eradication of Malaria is one of the targets of Word Health Organization, as such the international communities and NGO’s issue drugs, bed nets and training every year.

However, notwithstanding the present situation, health officers are known to be in the habit of selling the drugs to private pharmacies, and cut up the mosquito nets to be used as sponges for bathing. “Nobody really cares in this country,” he said.  

Stay with Sierra Express Media, for your trusted place in news!

© 2009, https:. All rights reserved.