‘We can kick TB, HIV and STIs’

PEOPLE living with sexually transmitted infections (STI’s), HIV/Aids or tuberculosis (TB) should try to stay as healthy as possible by following their health workers’ instructions.

This was according to Dr Helen Mavhandu-Mudzusi from the University of South Africa (Unisa), who spoke at the Lesley Manyathela Stadium during the launch of the annual Lesley Manyathela Kick TB, HIV/Aids and STI’s campaign recently.

“There are two main ways to stay healthy. Firstly, one has to know the dangers associated with STI’s, TB and HIV/Aids. If you suspect that you have the symptoms of any disease, the first referral point should be your nearest preferred heath institution.

“Secondly, accepting your health condition is key. If you are living with one of the diseases, you should try by all means to stay healthy by following instructions from your health workers,” she said

Messina Hospital acting chief executive officer, George Makuya said the main reason for the campaign was to create awareness on diseases that people could easily prevent or control.

“Through this annual campaign, we want our people to understand how best they can improve their health conditions,” he said.

Speakers shared vitally important information with the community on issues of health during the event.

Learners from different primary schools around Musina took part in a knock-out competition where they took penalty kicks. This was a demonstration of how easily community members could kick TB, HIV/Aids and STI’s. The Beitbridge Primary School team was the overall winner after beating Saint Martin De Porres by four goals to two.

Local TB and HIV/Aids awareness ambassador, Zilia Tshiruma said TB was curable. “If you are living with TB, please make your doctor or any other health practitioner your best friend. You will live longer if you follow their instructions,” Tshiruma said.

Regarding to HIV/Aids, Tshiruma said: “Being HIV positive doesn’t mean the end of your world. It simply means that you have to live positively, and follow doctors’ instructions,” he said.

Speaking on behalf of the Musina Municipality, councillor Gift Phiri said: “Campaigns like this one contribute positively to the well being of our society.

“We should all practise what we have been taught here today. Together we can help our community to stay healthy”.