Effects of Coronavirus Disease Pandemic on Tuberculosis Notifications, Malawi

• DOI: 10.3201/eid2707.210557
• Publication Date: 2021-06-21T16:48:46Z
• Authors: Rebecca Nzawa Soko; Rachael M. Burke; Helena R.A. Feasey; Wakumanya Sibande; Marriott Nliwasa; Marc Y.R. Henrion; McEwen Khundi; Peter J. Dodd; Chu Chang Ku; Gift Kawalazira; Augustine T. Choko; Titus H. Divala; Elizabeth L. Corbett; Peter MacPherson
• Keywords: Pandemic; Coronavirus; Stigma

Abstract The coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic might affect tuberculosis (TB) diagnosis and patient care. We analyzed a citywide electronic TB register in Blantyre, Malawi interviewed officers. did not have an official COVID-19 lockdown but closed schools borders on March 23, 2020. In interrupted time series analysis, we noted immediate 35.9% reduction notifications April 2020; recovered to near prepandemic numbers by December However, 333 fewer cumulative were received than anticipated. Women girls affected more (30.7% cases) men boys (20.9% cases). Fear of infection, temporary facility closures, inadequate personal protective equipment, stigma because similar symptoms mentioned as reasons for people being diagnosed with TB. Public health measures could benefit control both COVID-19, only if diagnostic services remain accessible are considered safe attend.