EM Bureau
Dimapur, March 24 (EMN): Various district headquarters in Nagaland observed World TB Day on March 24 on the theme ‘The clock is ticking.’ The day is observed to raise public awareness about the devastating health, social and economic consequences of TB and to step up efforts to end the global TB epidemic
Kohima: Nagaland TB Cell under the National TB Elimination Programme (NTBEP) observed the World TB Day at Kohima District Jail on March 24 on the theme “The clock is ticking.”
An update from the Health and Family Welfare department stated that the state TB officer, Dr. Robin Lotha, chaired the programme, while an invocation was said by the chaplain of District Jail, Kohima.
In a short speech, Inspector General of Prison Thungdemo Mozhui encouraged the prisoners to spread awareness on TB after they are out of prison. He also thanked the department of Health and Family Welfare for organising such an event in the prison.
Dr. Apichetla Amer, assistant programme officer, spoke on the signs and symptoms of TB and the facilities available under the programme. According to her, there are 52 designated microscopy centres and 10 CBNAAT machines for the purpose of diagnosing Tuberculosis. She also shared that people with low immunity like HIV and diabetics are more prone to Tuberculosis.
Besides, she stressed on the importance of uninterrupted completion of treatment otherwise it could lead to the development of multi drug resistant TB.
Speaking on the theme, Dr. Collins Z Sono, medical consultant WHO-NTEP, stated that the day is observed all over the world to recognise the achievements made in TB prevention and control activities as well as to renew commitment in eliminating the disease.
He encouraged the gathering to take personal responsibility in spreading the message about the disease in order to eliminate the disease by 2025 as envisaged by the government of India.
The vote of thanks was pronounced by Dr. Swuduvelu Ngully, NTEP medical officer, followed by distribution of gifts to prisoners.
Mokokchung: Mokokchung observed the World TB Day in the conference hall of the chief medical officer’s (CMO) office on March 24.
Speaking at the programme, Dr. Toshila, SMO of Chest Disease and TB Hospital, Mokokchung, stated that TB remained the biggest infectious killer disease in low and lower-middle-income countries like India. She has stressed on the need to redouble support in raising awareness to help achieve the UNHLM (United Nation High-Level Meeting) target by 2022.
Dr. Toshila also informed that at the start of 2020, the government of India has renamed the RNTCP to NTEP with its commitment to achieve the sustainable development goal (SDG) of ending TB by 2025 in India.
As per the latest Global TB report, the estimated number of new Tb cases in India was 2.69 million. While India has the largest number of MDR-TB cases (285 of global total), she stated that death due to TB was reduced by 19%.
To achieve the target, she stated that the Health Ministry is implementing a National Strategic Plan (2017-2025) by strengthening the existing intervention and focusing on key initiatives which included early diagnosis of TB patients, prompt treatment with quality-assured drugs and treatment regimes along with a suitable patient support system.
The doctor further stated that the task for eliminating TB in India required concerted action from all sectors by providing the right services, support and enabling a safe environment in the right place and at the right time.
Mon: The World TB Day in Mon district was observed at Leangha village.
Delivering the keynote address, Dr. Tinenlo James Katwa, DTO Mon, stated that having proper knowledge is the only weapon to get rid of the disease. He also made known to the public about the symptoms of the disease and the institutions where to get treated in the district.
He also briefed on the benefits of Nikshay Poshan Yojana, which is a monthly financial assistance scheme for TB patients, an update from the office of the chief medical officer (CMO), Mon, stated.
It also stated Dr. Shasinle Tep, DIO (UIP&RCH), and Dr. Mero cleared the doubts, myths and misconception about the disease. They also took a session to sensitise the crowd on Covid-19 vaccination.
It added that a mini health camp was organised on the occasion led by Dr. Tinenlo James Katwa, Dr. Shasinle Tep, Dr. Mero, and Dr. Penjei along with four nurses.
Phek: Phek district observed the World TB Day at Clock Tower in Phek town with the deputy commissioner of Phek, Razouvolie Dozo, as the special guest.
Speaking at the programme, Dozo called upon the gathering to spread awareness on TB in the society. He also acknowledged the NTEP staff for the effective implementation of the programme in the district and further encouraged the staff to work harder in the coming days.
Delivering the keynote address, CMO Phek Dr. Vibeituonuo Mepfuo highlighted the different services available for TB treatment in the district besides sharing on the signs and symptoms of TB. She also informed that the treatment, investigation, diagnosis for TB are free adding that TB patients are given an incentive of INR 500 monthly under Nickshay Poshan Yojana during the entire period of treatment.
She also briefed about the various activities carried out in the district under the ‘Jan Andolan’ campaign with the slogan ‘TB Harega: Desh Jeetega,’ a mass movement against TB. She further urged the NGOs from various groups, officers from different departments to support towards the elimination of TB by 2025.
Also sharing his testimony, Vepahu Khamo, cured TB patient and champion brand ambassador of Phek district, urged the gathering to remove social stigma attached to TB. A song was also presented by Velato Nienu.
Zunheboto: Zunheboto observed World TB Day at VDB hall in Zunheboto town on March 24, wherein the keynote address was delivered by Dr. Y Aron Sema, DTO, Zunheboto.
An update from CMO’s office, Zunheboto, stated that Dr. Aron has shared some facts about the early warnings and awareness for early detection. He elaborated about the signs and symptoms and the designated microscopy centre available in Zunheboto district. He stressed about the responsibilities of every citizen to create awareness.
Also speaking at the programme, Zunheboto superintendent of police Uniel Kichu thanked the healthcare workers for their services to the society. He also encouraged the gathering to practice a healthy lifestyle.
Dr. Esther Chophy Ngullie, dental surgeon of DH, shared on TB and tobacco, while the president of Zunheboto Town GBs’ Union, Shihoto Zhimo, spoke on behalf of the public and Akavi Yeptho, PMDT supervisor, presented a song on the occasion.
It added that Mughato Kiba, laboratory technician, was awarded the best TB healthcare worker. IEC materials were also distributed to the participants.