adminLisa Shirichena Herald Reporter
THE Ministry of Health and Child Care says 221 mothers have died while giving birth so far this year. According to the ministry’s weekly diseases surveillance report, of the figure, 10 died in the last week of August. The deaths were reported in Gweru district in Midlands (2), Gwanda district in Matebeleland South (1), Mutare district in Manicaland province(1), Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals(1), Harare Central Hospital (1), United Bulawayo Hospitals(2) and Mpilo Central Hospitals(2).
Health lobby group CWGH director Itai Rusike said the report could not have captured all the deaths as some women die during home deliveries.
“The unacceptable high rate of maternal mortality found in the MOHCC weekly report is a matter of concern. While there may be statistical queries on the figures, the maternal deaths needs to come down.
“We need to see the value for money from the huge investment that has been made through the Health Transition Fund and the Results Based Financing that is complementing the allocations from the MOHCC to provide comprehensive maternal health services without user fees,” he said.
According to the World Health Organisation, maternal death is the death of a woman while pregnant or within 42 days of termination of pregnancy, irrespective of the duration and site of the pregnancy, from any cause related to or aggravated by the pregnancy or its management but not from accidental or incidental causes.
The major causes of maternal deaths include haemorrhage, infection, high blood pressure, unsafe abortion, and obstructed labour.
Online Reporter