On World Tuberculosis Day 2024, the Ebonyi State Government emphasized the importance of early diagnosis and treatment for tuberculosis patients to ensure swift recovery. Addressing the press at Centenary City, Abakaliki, Dr. Moses Ekuma, the Ebonyi State Commissioner for Health, underscored tuberculosis as a highly lethal disease and urged all involved parties to intensify their efforts in combating it.
Dr. Ekuma advocated for adherence to the guidelines set forth by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the adoption of innovative approaches. He also called for the active participation of civil society organizations to minimize the prevalence of tuberculosis.
Highlighting the state government’s accomplishments, Dr. Ekuma mentioned the dissemination of information regarding the causes and remedies of tuberculosis to every community. Additionally, he ensured that all identified tuberculosis, Buruli ulcer, and leprosy patients received appropriate treatment and were cured.
Dr. Ekuma emphasized the importance of early diagnosis and treatment, revealing the installation of nine Gene-Xpert machines across the state to facilitate advanced and prompt diagnosis of tuberculosis in various hospitals. He also acknowledged the rise in tuberculosis patients in the state from 63.4% in December 1997 to 86% in December 2023, with a commendable treatment success rate of 90%.
Addressing the challenges facing the tuberculosis program, Dr. Ekuma acknowledged the issue of inadequate funding and commended supportive partners such as WHO, CARITAS Nigeria, Association for Reproductive and Family Health, and the Global Fund for AIDS, Tuberculosis, and Malaria for their assistance.
Chief Nwite Samuel, the Programme Manager of the National Tuberculosis, Leprosy, and Buruli Ulcer Control Programme, shared insights into the progress of tuberculosis services in the state. Dr. Hyacinth Ebenyi, the Director of Public Health, expressed gratitude to CARITAS and other supporting partners for their encouragement and pledged to continue raising awareness in the state.
The press briefing saw the presence of representatives from WHO, CARITAS Group, Instrat Global Health Solutions, and other pertinent stakeholders, emphasizing the collective effort required to combat tuberculosis effectively.
