TB should not be taken lightly: Haobam Rosita
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, March 24 2024: As done across the globe, the World TB was also observed in the state under the joint aegis of National TB Elimination Programme (NTEP) and National Health Mission (NHM) Manipur at JNIMS auditorium, on Sunday.

The function held under the theme "Yes We Can End TB", was attended by Health and Family Welfare special secretary Haobam Rosita and Health Services director Dr Oinam Sanahanbi Devi as chief guest and president respectively while JNIMS director Prof Laishram Deben Singh and medical superintendent Dr Kh Lokeshwar Singh were guests of honour.

Speaking on the occasion, Haobam Rosita pointed out that tuberculosis (TB) was once considered as the most deadly disease.

However due to the advancement of medical science, the disease can now be cured consequently resulting in people taking the disease lightly.

If TB is not accorded seriousness, it could only worsen and become chronic ultimately complicating the treatment process.

Maintaining the every one should have the habit of consulting doctor and visiting hospital as and when unwell, she emphasised that all diseased should be treated early and not wait for the last minute as one could lose his life if neglected.

Haobam Rosita further informed that the government of India had decided a target of ending TB five years ahead of the 2030 global Sustainable Development Goal.

The State TB Cell is contributing its mite to achieve the set goal.

However, the target would be hard to achieve if the task of eliminating TB is left alone to TB cell, she said and sought contribution of all to achieve the target.

Health director Dr Oinam Sanahanbi said that around 2 million people are infected by TB annually out of which one-fourth is in India thereby making the country the highest TB infected.

She also said that a total of 1267 people are presently undergoing TB treatment in Manipur.

Of the total people treated, 56 patients are of Drug resistance (DR) TB.

A Lipoprotein (A) testing laboratory was also opened on the occasion.

TB survived patients also shared their experiences during the observance.

A painting competition was also organised as part of the observance and winners presented prizes.

Meanwhile, District Health Society, Thoubal also organised a National TB Elimination Programme in relation with the 43rd World TB Day" at the office of Education Enhancement Organisation (EEO), Thoubal on Sunday.

Chief Medical Officer, Thoubal Dr Y Nokul and District TB Officer Dr Y Shameen attended the programme as chief guest and president respectively while District AIDS Control officer Dr Y Bijendra, district coordinator of District TB Centre Thongam Steffi and EEO Club president Y Ashakumar attended as guests of honour.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr Y Nokul appealed to the people to undergo TB tests at the testing centres of the district located at District TB Office, District Hospital, CHC Yairipok, and CHC Heirok if they experience symptoms.

Three ASHA workers were honoured in recognition of their contribution in assisting TB patients.

Later, food items were distributed to different relief camps of the district.

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