By Memory Kutengule Chatonda

Blantyre, May 9, MANA: To ensure improved maternal nutrition and pregnancy outcomes. Blantyre District Health Office (DHO) has advised community level development committees in the district to assist in raising awareness on newly rolled out Multiple Micronutrient Supplements (MMS) meant for pregnant women

Blantyre DHO, Safe Motherhood Coordinator, Ellida Bvutula, said MMS is an antenatal supplement that has replaced Iron Folic Acid (IFA), which used to be given to expectant women during antenatal visits.

Speaking during MMS awareness meeting with Somba Area Development Committee (ADC) on Friday, the coordinator said MMS provides broader nutritional support than IFA to pregnant mothers, thereby reducing cases of miscarriages, low birth weight, infant mortality and premature birth

“MMS provides 15 micronutrients, including Iron and Folic Acid, all combined in a single tablet. The single tablet is consumed every day throughout the pregnancy period.

“This is good for pregnant women to improve maternal nutrition and pregnancy outcomes,” she said.

Bvutula reiterated that the new supplement has less side effects in expectant mothers, including those with diabetes, high blood pressure, and a history of miscarriage.

Speaking during the same meeting, Blantyre District Commissioner, Alex Mdooko, encouraged men to take active role in disseminating correct information about the new supplement among expectant women.

“There is no government that can come up with drugs that are going to kill its own people. Therefore, let us diminish the myths surrounding the new supplements.

“Be on the forefront to at least promote the uptake of this supplement among pregnant women,” the District Commissioner added.

Traditional Authority Somba described the engagement meeting as timely, pledging to disseminate correct information about MMS far and wide using various social gatherings.

Blantyre is one of five districts in the country that are currently administering MMS to expectant mothers.