Health workers warned against corruption

By Chimwemwe Njoloma-Mana.Director of Health and Social Services for Bwaila Hospital, Alinafe Mbewe, has warned health workers against corrupt practices when administering COVID-19 vaccines.In an interview on Friday, Mbewe said her office received complaints that health workers from some health centres within the district have been demanding money for one to get a vaccine.She said the sites reported were Likuni Hospital, Area 25 Health Centre and Game stores site.“I got calls from different people reporting that our health workers were demanding money from them.“My office took up the matter. However, our investigation didn’t pin anyone to the allegation as they all denied the malpractice,” said Mbewe.She said nobody should ask any person to pay anything when they go to get a jab at the facility.“However, it had come to our notice that there are some community members who for reasons best known to themselves, do not want to queue on the line and are conniving with our health workers to bypass the lines.“The district health office is condemning this behaviour in strongest terms and urges the general public to report to the hospital In-charge with evidence,” she said.Mbewe said her office has opened 70 vaccine delivery sites across the district to ensure fast and smooth immunization process. On his part, Lilongwe District Commissioner (DC), Lawford Palani, said his office would ensure the vaccine is administered in line with the guidelines provided by government through the Ministry of Health.Palani said his office was working hand in hand with the district health office to provide quality health services as the country continues administering the vaccine. Mana/cnn/ys/thz