Rumphi District Hospital says it has registered an increase in number of Tuberculosis patients in the second quarter of the year 2022 as compared to the first quarter.

This has been disclosed by the District Tuberculosis Officer, Umar Mwamadi.

However, Mwamadi said there has been collaborative efforts between the hospital staff and the surrounding communities in the fight against the disease.

But he has lamented some religions that restrict their church members from seeking hospital services and has described the tendency as a big setback in the fight against Tuberculosis.

He made the remarks at the National Tuberculosis and Leprosy Elimination program media tour in the northern region.

The district has registered 42 cases in the second quarter as compared to 35 cases recorded during the first quarter of the year 2022.

“We have seen an increase in number of Tuberculosis patients in the second quarter as compared to the first quarter but there has been a good working relationship between our staff and the members of the community in the fights against the vice,” said Mwamadi.

He added that the hospital is working tirelessly with the community leaders to raise awareness on the benefits of getting tested to Tuberculosis at an early stage as well as receiving treatment on time.

Out of the 42 cases registered in the second quarter in the district, three people have died whilst the rest are on medication.