MALAWI has implemented a home-care system for tuberculosis (TB) patients in an attempt to free up hospital beds for non-HIV/Aids patients. The new programme will see all non-critical TB patients sent home for care by relatives, visiting nurses and doctors who have been trained to treat opportunistic diseases, such as TB, that target HIV/Aids sufferers. Central region deputy director for TB treatment, Henry Kanyerere, said a 490% increase in the number of TB cases over the past 15 years had left Malawi with no choice but to implement home-care. – African Eye News Service