TB awareness program in Kohima focuses on early detection and treatment

Joint Director, IPR I. Simon Teilia administering the TB Mukt Bharat Pledge held at Conference Hall, DIPR, Kohima. (DIPR Photo)

Joint Director, IPR I. Simon Teilia administering the TB Mukt Bharat Pledge held at Conference Hall, DIPR, Kohima. (DIPR Photo)

KOHIMA, FEBRUARY 27 (MExN): An awareness program was conducted on February 27 at the Directorate of Information and Public Relations, Kohima, as part of the ongoing "TB Free Nagaland" campaign under the National Tuberculosis Elimination Programme.

The event was attended by officials and staff from the Directorate of Health & Family Welfare. The program concluded with a "TB Mukt Bharat" pledge, which was administered by Joint Director Simon Teilia.

The campaign aims to increase public awareness about tuberculosis (TB), focusing on its infectious nature and preventive measures. Key points discussed included the importance of respiratory hygiene, such as covering the mouth and nose while coughing or sneezing, refraining from spitting in public spaces, proper sputum disposal, and maintaining well-ventilated living environments.

The program also addressed the importance of completing the full course of Directly Observed Treatment, Short-course (DOTS), noting that TB patients are generally no longer infectious after two weeks of treatment. The campaign encourages individuals to use the toll-free Ni-Kshay Helpline (1800-11-6666) for information or support.

A significant focus of the campaign was on early detection, with organizers emphasizing that cough is not the only symptom of TB. Other symptoms include fever, chest pain, swelling in the neck or armpits, unexplained weight loss, blood in sputum, and night sweats. Early detection is considered crucial for effective treatment and for preventing the further spread of the disease.

The awareness program comes as Nagaland works toward achieving the national target of eliminating tuberculosis by 2025. The success of the Tuberculosis Elimination Programme depends on public awareness, early detection, preventive measures, and addressing the stigma surrounding the disease.
 



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