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During a press conference to mark World Tuberculosis Day 2024 in Enugu State, the Commissioner for Health, Prof Ikechukwu Obi, emphasized the state’s commitment to combating tuberculosis. He revealed that in 2022, the state recorded 2,496 confirmed cases of tuberculosis and highlighted ongoing efforts to collate data for 2023. Prof Obi urged residents with persistent coughs to seek screening and treatment at nearby healthcare facilities, emphasizing that tuberculosis treatment is entirely free. The state provides TB services in 597 health facilities across Enugu. The theme for World Tuberculosis Day 2024 is “Yes, We Can End TB.” Tuberculosis, caused by mycobacterium tuberculosis bacteria, primarily affects the lungs but can also affect other parts of the body. Prof Obi outlined symptoms of active TB, including chronic cough with blood, fever, night sweats, and weight loss, while latent TB may exhibit no symptoms. He highlighted the modes of transmission and diagnostic methods for TB, including chest x-rays, microscopy, genexpert, and culture of fluids. Prof Obi stressed the importance of health education, screening, early detection, and treatment in TB prevention. He credited the Global Fund, Federal Ministry of Health, Enugu State Ministry, and TB supporting partners for sponsoring free TB services. Prof Obi urged individuals experiencing symptoms to seek medical attention promptly.
