Dimapur, March 26: The Kohima District TB Centre observed the World TB Day on March 24 at the Chief Medical Officer’s Office on the theme ‘Yes! We can end TB!’
A press release informed that a cycle rally was organised in collaboration with the Gear Thrills Cycling Club which was flagged off by the Chief Medical Officer.
The cyclists distributed IEC materials to the public on TB to spread awareness. The formal programme started with a keynote address by the Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Tumchobeni.
The significance of the day was shared by Dr. Chibenthung Kithan, District TB Officer. He said that World TB Day is observed annually on March 24 to raise awareness about TB and efforts to end the global epidemic, marking the day in 1882 when the bacterium causing TB was discovered.
This year’s theme aims to inspire hope and encourage high-level leadership, increased investments, faster uptake of new WHO recommendations, adoption of innovations, accelerated action, and multi-sectoral collaboration to combat the TB epidemic.
He added that since January 2022 till date, a total of 708 patients have tested TB positive, out of which 281 are currently on treatment and 6 MDR patients.
He also highlighted about the NTEP services available at the centre. The Pradhan Mantri TB Mukth Bharat Abhiyaan Campaign also seeks to garner support for TB patients through donors also known as Nikshay Mitra in the form of nutritional, vocational or diagnostic support.
Dr Amenla Walling, Deputy Director of Veterinary & Animal Husbandry, who is also a donor, shared her experience and motivation behind becoming a Nikshay Mitra.
She encouraged people to come forward in creating awareness and becoming donors and reduce stigma related to TB. The TB Champion, Rudisula, shared her testimony as a patient and her road to recovery. The programme was followed by a training on TB Presumptive Treatment.
(Page News Service)
