Guyana: Region Seven receives a brand-new pickup vehicle, informs Health Ministry

Guyana: The Ministry of Health’s compound, Minister of Health Dr Frank Anthony, on December 6, 2022, handed over the keys of a brand new 4X4 pickup to the Supervisor for region Seven Malaria Department, Natalie Griffith.

The Pickup vehicle will assist with the fight against malaria and provide mobility to the staff and team in the region. It was purchased under the Global Fund at a value of GY$ 9,658,750.

During his brief remarks, Dr Anthony stated that not only region seven has seen an increase in Malaria cases but also regions one (Barima-Waini), eight (Potaro-Siparuni), nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo), and parts of ten (Upper Demerara-Berbice) have been seeing an increase in cases.

He added that through Global Fund, the MOH was able to access over fifty-seven insecticide-impregnated bed nets (insecticide-treated bed nets) last year, which were donated to different communities across the country.

He noted that some of these bed nets could also be used in hammocks. With these donations, the minister stated that they would be able to decrease malaria cases being seen in the regions.

The minister also highlighted the Ministry has recently implemented the use of rapid tests for diagnosing malaria throughout the ten administrative regions, along with the current use of microscopic testing.

Hinterland Coordinator Micheal Gouveia and Director (Ag) for Vector Control Services Dr Reza Niles-Robin were also present to attend the handing over ceremony.