TB WEEK 2023: 8,277 TB PATIENTS UNDERGOING TREATMENT – COMMISSIONER
By: Safiya Abdulrahim Dabban. 08036377731
Kano state government says, 8,277 TB patients, representing 96 percent of the total burden, have been placed on TB treatment, which is the highest quarterly TB notification ever in Nigeria.
Kano state commissioner of health Dr. Abubakar Labaran Yusuf, made the disclosure while briefing newsmen, as part of activities to commemorate 2023 National Tuberculosis Testing week.
According to him, kano state being the most populous state in Nigeria, is one of the five high TB burden states, where the TB burden stood at 34,547, which represents expected notification of 8,637 TB patients quarterly.
Dr. Abu Bakar pointed out that, within the last few months, Kano state government, in collaboration with partners has done a lot in curtailing TB burden, and transmission.
The commissioner hinted that, expansion of TB diagnostic equipments to cover distant communities, deployment of mobile screening tools and machines, sustenance of TB services in correctional facilities, military barracks, police academy, custom, tertiary institutions among others, has yielded positive results.
He urged Kano residents, to visit the nearest health facility, for TB screening, early diagnosis and prompt treatment free of Charge.
Dr. Abubakar, reiterated Kano state governments dedication, in mitigating diseases, and uplifting healthcare delivery to international standards.
“Kano state government in collaboration with federal ministry of health through the National Tuberculosis, leprosy and Buruli Ulcer control program and our partners have joined hands together to commemorate the day and called on the good people of the state to come en mass and get screened for TB free of charge”
Radio Nigeria reports that, the 2023 national tuberculosis testing week is themed “yes we can end TB get Involved”.