NMC Chair Preaches Behaviour Change as MoH Engages Northern Journalists on Mpox, Measles and Cholera Outbreaks

Nyika Media Club Chairperson Feston Malekezo has urged journalists to become agents of change in spreading news about emerging health issues in the country to effectively combat them.

Malekezo made this call on Friday, September 29, 2024, at Ilala Crest Lodge in Mzuzu, where the Ministry of Health had convened journalists from Northern Malawi to equip them with information on Mpox, measles, and cholera outbreaks.

“I emphasized the importance of behavioural change, such as washing hands, as it is a gradual process that requires consistent effort,” Malekezo said.

“As journalists, we must not tire of writing and spreading news about these emerging health issues, as our efforts will influence behavioural change.”

Malekezo also stressed the role of journalists in spreading public awareness and providing accurate information on health issues in a timely manner, particularly in the face of social media misinformation.

Ministry of Health spokesperson Adrian Chikumbe noted that empowering journalists with reliable updates on emerging health issues would help combat misinformation.

“We want to update the public on the current Mpox situation; although we have no confirmed cases, 44 suspected cases have tested negative.”

Chikumbe reported measles outbreaks in Mangochi and Lilongwe and cholera cases in Chitipa and Karonga. “We are working closely with the media to ensure the public receives accurate information on disease prevention,” he said.

“There is no need to panic, as we have a system in place to manage any cases that may arise.”