Minister of Health Abdulla Ameen has stated Maldives have made a remarkable achievement in mitigating communicable diseases.
Speaking at a function held at Ministry of Health to receive a GeneXpert machine for tuberculosis (TB) diagnosis donated by World Health Organisation (WHO), Minister Ameen explained the administration aims to eradicate TB by 2022. The minister explained the administration is working to achieve the target sooner. He highlighted the constant contribution and assistance from WHO in developing health sector in Maldives.
The 4 module GeneXpert machines donated by WHO diagnoses cases of TB by detecting the presence of TB bacteria in saliva in 2 hours. It also tests for resistance to the drug given for TB. The four machines donated by WHO will be used in Raa Atoll, Laamu Atoll, Lhaviyani Atoll and in Addu City.
GeneXpert machines have also been installed in Kulhudhuffushi Regional Hospital in Haa Dhaalu Atoll and Abdul Samad Memorial Hospital in Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll as part of the first 100-day pledge policy of the administration.
Previously, the only centre that offered GeneXpert services was Indira Gandhi Memorial Hospital (IGMH) in Male' City.