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Zimbabwe Calls for Dedicated Infection Prevention Fund

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 To tackle recurrent epidemics, health officials in Zimbabwe are championing the creation of a dedicated fund for Infection Prevention and Control (IPC). The call for a standalone IPC budget comes amid the ongoing struggle with disease outbreaks and the pressing need to strengthen the country’s healthcare infrastructure.

To tackle recurrent epidemics, health officials in Zimbabwe are championing the creation of a dedicated fund for Infection Prevention and Control (IPC). The call for a standalone IPC budget comes amid the ongoing struggle with disease outbreaks and the pressing need to strengthen the country’s healthcare infrastructure.

The current IPC funding, scattered across a range of health programs, presents significant challenges. The lack of a centralized fund makes it arduous to monitor and allocate resources specifically for IPC interventions. This fragmentation impedes the nation’s ability to adhere to the World Health Assembly Resolution of 2023, which advises countries to establish independent IPC budgets. Such a move would help reduce healthcare-associated infections and prevent future outbreaks.

A multi-sectoral approach is crucial for resource mobilization. Collaboration among the government, corporate entities, and media could potentially slash healthcare burdens, such as antimicrobial resistance, significantly. Celestino Dhege, president of the Infection Control Association of Zimbabwe Trust, also underscored the importance of investing in IPC programs. He cited benefits such as improved health outcomes, reduced healthcare costs, and increased safety for patients and health workers.

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The COVID-19 pandemic has underlined the urgency for a distinct budget for health emergencies. Dhege mentioned that strategic budget planning is already underway in collaboration with the Ministry. The goal is to bolster the health system and stave off diseases. These statements resonate strongly against the backdrop of Zimbabwe’s struggle with disease outbreaks and the need to fortify its healthcare infrastructure.