Malawi Prison Services (MPS) has raised concerns over the spread of tuberculosis (TB) in the country’s prisons, citing congestion as the primary factor contributing to the problem. According to MPS spokesperson Chimwemwe Shaba, the high population of prisoners, combined with limited ventilation in cells, has led to the rapid transmission of the disease. Shaba highlighted this issue during the Media and Faith Based Biannual meeting for the National TB and Leprosy Elimination Program (NTLEP) held at Mulunguzi in Zomba.
Efforts to combat the spread of TB in prisons have been implemented, resulting in a decline in infection rates. Shaba reported that the TB infection rate in prisons has decreased from 5.6 percent in 2017 to the current rate of 0.5 percent. However, challenges persist due to overcrowding, with the current prisoner population reaching 16,000 compared to the recommended capacity of 8,000.
To mitigate the spread of the disease, MPS has implemented several measures, including mass screenings twice a year, screening prisoners upon entry and exit, and requesting sputum samples from presumptive cases. Infected individuals are promptly isolated and provided with treatment. Of the 16,000 prisoners, 42 are currently undergoing treatment.
Malawi has a total of 30 prisons, with 14 equipped with clinics to provide healthcare services. The remaining prisons have improvised rooms to cater to the health needs of inmates. Despite these efforts, the issue of congestion and its contribution to the spread of TB remains a significant challenge.
The MPS is committed to combating the disease within the prison system and ensuring the well-being of inmates. However, greater attention and support are needed from relevant authorities to address the issue of congestion in prisons and improve the overall conditions for prisoners.
The spread of TB in Malawi’s prisons highlights the urgent need to address the issue of overcrowding and limited ventilation. Adequate measures should be taken to provide sufficient space and airflow in prison cells to minimize the risk of disease transmission. Additionally, continued efforts to educate and sensitize both prisoners and prison staff about TB and its prevention are essential in achieving a healthier environment within the prison system.
The battle against TB in Malawi’s prisons is far from over, but with continued collaborative efforts and investment in infrastructure improvement, the country can make significant progress towards reducing the spread of this infectious disease in correctional facilities.
