Clare N
Hope has been rekindled in Kasese and Ntoroko districts following the launch of a one-year initiative to test mothers for Hepatitis B, offering an environment of relief and a chance for early detection and treatment
About the project
The project, funded by Gilead Pharmaceuticals USA, will be implemented by the Great Lakes Peace Centre and Alliance for Children and Youth Uganda.
Speaking at the launch of the project yesterday at the DHO’s office in Kasese, Ms. Fatina Masika, the project officer, explained that the initiative focuses on early detection, linkage, and prioritization of scientifically proven interventions to eliminate Hepatitis B among the general population, particularly among pregnant mothers.
Ms. Fatina, emphasized that the project targets pregnant women living near lake shores since screening for Hepatitis B infection during pregnancy identifies women whose babies are at risk of perinatal transmission.
Areas of Implementation
According to Fatina, the project will be implemented at various health facilities, including Bwera Hospital, Karambi HC IV, Katadoba Health Centre III, Rukoki H/C IV, Karugutu HC IV, and Rwebisengo HC III.
Elaborating on the project’s implementation plan, Jovia Kabugho, the Executive Director of Alliance for Children and Youth Uganda, was particular that thorough research has been done in line with the project, calling for collective efforts among the health workers in the front lined areas to collect proper data.
The Assistant Principal Secretary of the Chief Administrative Officer in Kasese, Mr. Kikusa Mustafa, who commended the timely project,recognized the importance of mothers getting tested for Hepatitis B in the suggested areas.He was however quick to urge the project implementers to come up with incentives that will trigger the targeted audience to show up for the cause.
Mustafa, further cautioned the local community against self-medication, something he noted has lately increased in communities, emphasizing the importance of seeking professional medical help.
Hon. Monday Bwambale Girivazio, the district secretary for social services, pledged the district’s support for the project
