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Paidamoyo Chipunza Health Reporter
Government has taken charge of the medical care of a two-month-old baby born with multiple abnormalities after the embryo failed to separate completely into identical twins during pregnancy.Speaking after visiting the parents of Tinashe Mayedzo at Hopley Farm yesterday, Health and Child Care Minister Dr David Parirenyatwa said Government would facilitate corrective surgery both locally and outside the country.
“We have taken charge and leadership to strengthen this family in coping with the situation they have and see how best we can assist as Government by facilitating corrective surgeries as well as raising funds where need be,” Dr Parirenyatwa said.
He said from the conversations he and his deputy, Dr Paul Chimedza had with the child’s parents — Ms Grace Zimbowa and Mr Charles Mayedzo — the baby appeared to have no other health problems save for the abnormalities.
“We are happy the baby is healthy, well-nourished, gaining weight and well looked after. With the advice from our paediatricians, we will do our best to ensure that he receives the necessary treatment required,” he said.
Paediatrician consultant at Harare Central Hospital Dr Angela Hilda Mujuru said they would do a second assessment of Tinashe to get a clearer picture of what needs to be done.
“They were supposed to be twins but the other baby was not viable and was absorbed, resulting in some of his bits and pieces developing on the other baby’s body,” she said.
Dr Mujuru said this condition could have been caused by shortage of blood supplies to the egg. Although the abnormalities could not have been avoided, Dr Mujuru said they could be corrected.
Online Reporter