The Zambia Union of Nurses Organization (ZUNO) has expressed concern over the reported attacks on Nurses and Midwives by some members of the public in the wake of riots against people who are allegedly gassing people around the country.

ZUNO General Secretary Fray Michelo told Money FM News that Nurses and Midwives who are tirelessly working under difficult conditions saving lives have been put on the negative spotlight as rumors continue to spread that they are aiding people involved in the vice.

Mr. Michelo said the uncalled for behavior has left Nurses and Midwives without a sense of protection and security.
“ZUNO therefore wishes to express disappointment as well as condemn in the strongest terms, such behavior being exhibited by the members of the community who we considered to be our partners in attaining health for all. This kind of behavior has left our Nurses and Midwives without a sense of protection and security,” Mr. Michelo said.

He warned that if such attacks on Nurses and Midwives continue, the union will be left with no choice but to advise its members to leave the duty stations as they cannot work effectively when their lives are under threat.
Mr. Michelo called on relevant authorities to put the protection and security of Nurses and Midwives as a priority and heighten security in health facilities.

“We accordingly call on relevant authorities to put the protection and security of Nurses and Midwives as a priority and heighten security in health facilities. These men and women serving the country 24 hours a day risking their lives in an effort to save members of the community are now being attacked by the very people they are trying to save,” he added.

Recently, a nurse in Luwingu District was stabbed as he attempted to rescue an old woman from a mob that accused her of harboring a person believed to be involved in the gassing of people in the area.