Why self-medication is on the rise
Wednesday April 28 2021
A woman prepares to take medication. Under and over doses are common during self-medication. PHOTO/ABUBAKER LUBOWA
Summary
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In the past, self-medication was common among the rural population, who lived far away from health centres.
However, today any person who feels unwell walks into a pharmacy or drug shop to buy drugs, some of which require doctors’ prescription.
According to medical experts, self-medication results in under or overdose, especially among children and expectant mothers.
In 2010, the National Drug Authority (NDA) estimated that eight in every 10 people self-medicate or buy drugs over the counter. NDA attributes this to the increased number of pharmacies and drug shops, expensive treatment from clinics and long distances to health facilities.
Daily Monitor
Friday March 12 2021
A health worker at Masaka hospital administers the Covid-19 vaccine at the launch of the exercise in Masaka on March 11, 2021. PHOTO/ MALIK FAHAD JJINGO
Summary
In Amuru, Dr Patrick Olwendo Odong, the district health officer, confirmed that they have received the vaccination but are waiting for directives from the ministry to start the exercise.
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Some health workers said they had not yet received the vaccines by yesterday.
Other health workers had not received logistics for the exercise.
In Sheema, Mr Dickens Atwongyeire, the district health officer, said though they have received vaccines, they do not have documentation materials such as vaccination cards and consent forms.