World Heath Organization (WHO) has handed over four GeneXpert machines to Health Ministry to facilitate easy testing for Tuberculosis (TB) at local hospitals.
Health Minister Ameen said while two GeneXpert Machines are already being used at two locations across the Maldives as part of the 100 days pledges of the government, the four new machines will be sent to Laamu, Raa, Lhaviyani and Addu atoll.
While GeneXpert Machines are already being utilized at HDh. Kulhudhufushi Regional Hospital and Dr. Abdul Samad Memorial Hospital in Thinadhoo, the availability of the machines in four additional locations will help in the efforts to eradicate TB from the Maldives, said the minister.
Previously, GeneXpert machines were used only at state owned Indira Ghandhi Memorial Hospital (IGMH) in capital Male'.
Tuberculosis is a disease caused by bacteria called Mycobacterium tuberculosis. The bacteria usually attack the lungs, but they can also damage other parts of the body. TB spreads through the air when a person with TB of the lungs or throat coughs, sneezes, or talks.
Photo: Health Ministry
