Kohima: Nagaland has initiated a 100-day intensified campaign to eradicate tuberculosis (TB) by 2025. Health Minister P Paiwang Konyak, while launching the campaign on December 7th, underscored the collective responsibility of government agencies, NGOs, healthcare workers, and the general public in achieving this goal. He assured adequate resources and funding to bolster the campaign’s success.
MLA Tseilhoutuo Rhutso highlighted the importance of public participation and early detection. He emphasized that negative TB tests might not always signify the absence of infection, as the disease can manifest in latent or closed forms. He urged people to undergo skin tests in specific cases.
Health Secretary Anoop Khinchi acknowledged the significant public health challenge posed by TB in India. Nagaland reported 4,229 TB cases in 2023, with 3,018 new cases detected this year. The ongoing campaign aims to accelerate early detection, provide comprehensive treatment, and offer nutritional support to TB patients.
National Health Mission’s Nagaland Mission Director Akuo Sorhie stated that the campaign would prioritize vulnerable populations, including household contacts of TB patients, individuals with HIV or diabetes, and the elderly. Advanced diagnostic tools like AI-based X-ray screenings and molecular testing will be employed to enhance early detection. The campaign also emphasizes nutritional support, with monthly assistance of Rs 1,000 for patients under the Pradhan Mantri TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyan.
To further strengthen its efforts, the health minister flagged off the Ni-Kshay Vahan, a mobile unit designed to deliver diagnostic and treatment services to remote areas of the state.
Read More: Mizoram CM Launches Book on Assam Rifles Campus’s Ecological Significance