Malawi: Neno District Hospital has reported an increase in the number of unusual bacterial infections among children. The children displaying symptoms of the said bacterial infection are admitted to the facility since June 26, 2024.
The infection is being observed among the children and has so far caused the death of three children. The officials have expressed their concern on the situation that they are observing and shared some details with the media.
Neno District Hospital, Public Relations Officer, Caroline Banda said the hospital recoded 23 cases to date. The Public Relations Officer said, “Currently, four children are admitted, 16 have recovered and been discharged, and three have unfortunately died.”
She said the affected children show symptoms such as fever, abdominal pain, vomiting, loose stools and headache. The officials have shared that they have not been successful in pinpointing the exact cause of the infection.
The publicist said most of them tested negative on malaria. She also highlighted that the stool tests from two cases revealed the presence of an uncommon bacterium, Raoultella ornithinolytica.
The healthcare workers at the hospital suspect this bacterium to be the cause of the infection. The officials have establish that the infection may be potentially spreading through poor hygiene practices.
Banda added that the affected children come from 12 villages listed as follows:
- Donda
- Samson
- Kweneza
- Wilison
- Galeta
- Sekani
- Mpakathi
- George
- Chifenthe
- Chimchembere
- Chagwaudyo
- Chimbalanga
The aforementioned villages are a part of the Traditional Authorities Chekucheku and Dambe.
“Efforts to identify the underlying cause of this surge in cases. include targeted community case follow-ups, environmental assessments and increased community awareness,” she said, adding that the hospital is urging people in the district to practice good hygiene at home and in public places to prevent further spread.
She however said the increase in cases has been gradual with the highest number of admissions (four cases) occurring yesterday. The hospital staff and the healthcare stakeholders have been working around the clock to find a solution to the issue.