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Tanaka Makuwaza Herald Correspondent
THE breakdown of tuberculosis X-ray machines in Manicaland has heightened the threat of disease spreading within communities amid indications that only St Joseph’s Hospital is offering the service at affordable rates in the province.

TB is spread through the air and patients must quickly get treatment to contain it.

Zimbabwe National Network of People Living with HIV provincial coordinator for Manicaland Mr Moses Chananuka said only St Joseph’s Hospital in Chikanga 3, Mutare, had a TB x-ray machine and was overwhelmed.

“What we have noted is that most patients are failing to access X-ray services. The only place providing X-ray services is St Joseph’s Hospital and as most institutions, including Mutare Provincial Hospital, are failing due to breakdown of machines,” said Mr Chananuka.

He said some facilities do not have X-ray films.

“The challenge with St Joseph’s is load-shedding.

“Most of the services are now provided at night when there is power. Most patients are told to come during the night and have their X-rays done. It is really a challenge for patients coming from places outside Mutare as the hospital does not provide accommodation,” said Mr Chananuka.

He noted that private hospitals providing the services were very expensive.

“Private facilities providing the service charge exorbitant fees of up to $300 while St Joseph’s is only charging about $35 for the X-ray service so most people opt for St Joseph’s.”

He warned that failure to effectively contain TB exposed communities to infection.

“This is contributing to the delays in patients being initiated on treatment putting the whole community at risk,” added Mr Chananuka.