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Before & After
A makeshift incinerator is replaced with a new, safe one
New Incineraor Improves Public Health
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Photo: M. Mbendera
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BEFORE - This makeshift incinerator at Kasungu District Hospital generated fumes and particles that posed serious public health risks. Medical equipment was not disposed of properly, leaving both adults and children at greater risk of contracting disease.
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Photo: M. Mbendera
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AFTER - This new modern incinerator was installed with help from USAID. Harmful medical waste is now incinerated thoroughly, reducing air pollution and preventing partially burnt materials such as needles and other hazardous waste from making their way to nearby areas where children play.
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It may be difficult to envision the tremendous benefits that a new incinerator could bring, but for the community around Kasungu District Hospital, this new addition meant all the difference between sickness and health. For years, Kasungu District Hospital was using a makeshift incinerator to dispose of used needles, syringes, glass, gloves, and bandages. Unfortunately, it did not function properly, causing damage to the environment and posing a health risk to the people living and working around the hospital. With the community’s public health already compromised from malnutrition and the effects of HIV/AIDS, the risks ran even higher. With funding from USAID, Kasungu District Hospital constructed a proper incinerator and trained staff on how to effectively dispose of medical equipment. The new incinerator reduces the risk of infection while also protecting the environment.
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