Cintia A. , Lebledparle.com
Tuberculosis remains one of the leading infectious diseases worldwide, affecting millions of people each year. However, TB is not a death sentence, it is both preventable and curable if detected early and treated properly. This year it is celebrated under the theme, “Yes! we can end TB: Commit, Invest, Deliver,” a theme that highlights the urgency of taking crucial action to eliminate tuberculosis (TB). To this cause, the government has reaffirmed its dedication to combating the disease by accelerating the implementation of the National Strategic Plan for Tuberculosis (2024-2026), which aims to improve early detection, prevention, and treatment efforts across the country. In other to properly understand Tuberculosis, it is important to know those at higher risk of TB infection and they include
-Individuals with weakened immune systems, such as HIV or diabetic patients, children and the elderly,
-Malnourished individuals who lack proper nutrition to fight infections.
-People living in close contact with TB patients, such as family members or healthcare workers.
Preventing and detecting it early are the key ways to end TB and to curb the spread health experts recommend
-Getting tested if you experience a persistent cough lasting more than two weeks.
-Completing the full course of TB treatment if diagnosed to prevent drug-resistant strains.
-Improving ventilation in homes and workplaces to reduce airborne transmission.
These measures are key ways to avoid being a patient and like the saying goes “health is gold”.
It is worth noting that concerns about the availability and cost of TB medications, especially after the temporary suspension of U.S. aid (USAID) funding, Health Minister Manaouda Malachie issued a communiqué on March 14 clarifying that all TB treatments remain completely free in public hospitals and community-based health centers nationwide.
The government urged citizens to report any illegal sale of TB drugs, reassuring the public that adequate resources remain available to ensure free treatment for all patients.
