by Innocent Mujeri

The Ministry of Health and Child Care, in partnership with the Union Zimbabwe Trust (UZT), has embarked on a programme to offer free HIV, TB and diabetes screening for the people of Epworth in Seke Medical District.

Writing on their Twitter handle @endTBZimbabwe, the UZT urged the people of Epworth to take advantage of the scheduled outreach programme to get tested for TB, HIV and diabetes and also to freely consult doctors on other medical problems bedevilling them.

A letter written by one Murahwa on behalf of Seke District Medical Officer (DMO) to clinics within the District revealed that the free screening will commence on 24 August to 5 September 2020.

The same letter revealed that the target groups for the free screening of diseases are people living with HIV and those who are diabetic among others.

“May you please note that the targeted population is people living with HIV, diabetics, former and current miners, smokers, people in contact with TB patients, the elderly, malnourished persons, health workers and ex-prisoners,” said Murahwa.

Murahwa urged those who will be coming for testing to wear masks in line with the World Health Organisation COVID-19 health regulations.

The screening exercise will start at Domboramwari shops in Epworth on 24 August 2020 and the following day, the team will be at Glenwood shops for the same exercise.

Other areas that will be visited include Rueben shops, Chiremba shops, Akedish shops, Overspill, Solani shops and Murisa Business centre in Epworth.

The free testing and screening of diseases such as HIV and TB came at a very opportune time as many people are suffering from these diseases unaware. Testing will therefore  enable people who are affected to seek early treatment and save their lives.