“The price of Covidex is high, yet we are all affected by the current circumstances and there’s no money to buy the drug.”
Bufumbira South MP Alex Niyonsaba has today visited public Health Centres in his constituency, as he donated Covidex herbal medicine and listened to their concerns.
Hon Niyonsaba, also known as Seruganda visited all Health Centre IIIs in his constituency, and Bunagana Health Centre II.
He says that the Covidex medicine was recently approved by the National Drug Authority, and he thought he should support local health facilities with the drug, so that the local population could access it, since its price is being hiked by private clinics.
“For the start, I am giving every health centre 25 bottles of the Covidex drug which can be used by health workers and patients who have been confirmed positive with Covid-19.
“I know 25 bottles are not enough. When they get over, please notify me so that I may send more. The price of Covidex is high, yet we are all affected by the current circumstances and there’s no money to buy the drug.”
All Health Centres raised the concern of inadequate medical supplies, saying they receive on a quarterly basis, but most essential drugs get finished within two months.
Other issues they asked Hon Niyonsaba to follow up are Covid-19 protective gear for health workers, running water and electricity at Bunagana Health Centre, an ambulance for Muramba Health Centre and accomodation.
Others were inadequate delivery beds, access roads and wards.
At Muramba Health Centre III, Hon Niyonsaba noted that with the district council having passed a resolution to Upgrade it to a Health Centre IV, he would follow up in the relevant offices.
Seruganda asked health workers to remain committed to their work and serve humankind, despite the challenges.
Nick Muneza, the Assistant District Health Officer in charge of disease surveillance, Nick Muneza who was on supportive supervision of health facilities warned the health workers against selling the Covidex drug, saying they should provide accountability.
“The drug should be given to only those who have been confirmed positive. I get information of everyone who gets positive in Kisoro. If you sell this Covidex or simply give it out, I will ask you.”
The Health facilities visited include Nyabihuniko in Chahi Sub County, Nyarusiza, Muramba, Bunagana and Nyakinama.
Discussion about this post