Important note: Information in this article was accurate in 2009. The state of the art may have changed since the publication date.
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New Vision (Kampala) - October 25, 2009
Irene Nabusoba and Halima Shaban
The medical supplies, donated by the Elizabeth Glaser Paediatric AIDS Foundation, will help prevent mother-to-child HIV transmission.
The kits contain a plastic sheet, rubber gloves, gauze, sterile threads and a razorblade.
Handing over the supplies at Kawolo Hospital and Mukono Health Centre IV recently, the foundation president, Pamela Barnes, said having the right tools for a safe and healthy delivery is a crucial part of protecting the mothers and their babies.
"It is vital that pregnant women have the necessary medical supplies to deliver their babies in a clean and sterile environment," Barnes said.
In Uganda, many mothers opt to give birth at home with the help of traditional birth attendants, elderly women or by themselves in unhygienic environments, she added.
Barnes observed that under such circumstances, the supplies, commonly called Mama Kits, are handy.
"We also know that some of our mothers are poor and often come to hospital without basics like warm clothing for the new-borns. Our kits go beyond ensuring a safe delivery. They include medicine dispensers for babies, a blanket, clothing and diapers," Barnes noted.
Mother-to-child is the second major mode of HIV transmission in Uganda, accounting for 15% of infections in children.
Dr. Robert Kasirye of Mukono Health Centre IV said in some health facilities, women are expected to carry their own birthing supplies.
Since 2000, the foundation has provided birthing kits to more than 1.68 million women in Uganda. It also provides care, treatment and psychosocial support for people living with HIV.
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