29 Oct 2020

The number of teenage pregnancies in the South East South sub-district is said to be increasing.

This is according to the District Health Management Team (DHMT) report, for the Ramotswa-Otse cluster, which covers South East South sub-disctrict.

The cluster for the period of July to September recorded 26 cases, which is an increase of six cases, as compared to 20 cases reported from April to June.

Of the reported new cases, five are school-going children who tested negative for HIV. 

However, one teenager tested positive.

Three cases have been referred to social workers for assessment.

The youngest reported to be pregnant is aged 16 and she is an out of school child, while the oldest case is that of a 19-year-old.

The report highlights that the increasing numbers are a sign that teenagers are still risking their lives to HIV/AIDS and other sexually transmitted infections as well as maternal complications.

Meanwhile, Ramotswa-Otse cluster under the Greater Gaborone DHMT recorded an increase of 627 cases of sexually transmitted infections between July and September as opposed to 488 cases reported in April and June.

According to the district report, the increase shows that more people continue to indulge in unprotected sexual intercourse.

The Ramotswa-Otse cluster report also cautioned of the high risk of HIV transmission among the community. 

The report highlights the need to continue with condom demonstrations and distribution as well as health sensitisation talks to reduce the risks. Ends