'Persons showing TB symptoms must get tested'
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, December 05 2024: Stating that timely detection and early treatment can easily cure TB, state TB officer Dr Hemlata Thokchom has appealed to the public to get tested if they have symptoms of TB.

Addressing a press meet at State TB Training and Demonstration Centre at RD Wing complex, Lamphelpat here on Thursday, Dr Hemlata said that the global target to eliminate TB is 2030 while the country is setting the target five years ahead, on 2025 .

In this regard, a 100-day intensified campaign will begin from Saturday across the country as mop-up round.

In the state too, health minister will flag off the campaign on Saturday and the campaign will encompass six districts - Imphal East, 'Thoubal, Kakching, Chandel, Kangpokpi and Churachandpur.

She further informed that the death rate of TB in the country is 3.6 per cent and the six districts of the state were included in the campaign based on different parameters.

People living with HIV, persons above 60 years of age, and persons having diabetes and cancer are among the vulnerable population group.

The campaign will target these population group through screening, testing, treatment and nutritional support.

The campaign will conclude on March 24, the World TB Day and it will be carried out in coordination with CMOs, DTOs and line departments as well as key stakeholders in the six districts under the directives of their respective DCs, she added.

Globally, 10.4 million people are suffering from TB and India contributes T1 per cent.

Global death rate of TB is 1.8 million per year and India contributes 29 per cent.

TB is a communicable disease and it is curable.

However, it could still claim lives if left untreated.

Common symptoms of TB include cough for more than two weeks, high temperature during night, chest pain, shortness of breath, fatigue, loss of appetite, fever, night sweat, weight loss among others.

If any individual experiences these symptoms, they should get tested as soon as possible, she said.

Dr Hemlata further said that public support is crucial in order to eliminate TB while urging the public to cooperate with the government's initiative to achieve the target of TB free India.

* Edited on 07 Dec to reflect TB is a communicable disease .

Comment