Health authorities at Ngabu Rural Hospital in Chikwawa district have complained of increased cases of mental health as statics indicate that they treat 280 patients every month.

Prince Kachika who is in charge of the facility revealed the development on Monday 16 September 2019 when Minister of Health and Population Jappie Mhango visited Ngabu Rural hospital.

According to Kachika most patients are those suffering from epilepsy inherited from parents or caused by severe malaria and other people are in the situation due to alcohol and drug abuse.

“There are several factors but I think more needs to be done to control excessive beer drinking and chamba smoking. Police and social welfare Office in the district have been warning people against alcohol and drug abuse but to no avail,” said Kachika.

Chikwawa District Health Officer (DHO) Stalin Zinkanda commended Minister Jappie Mhango for visiting the facility.