As part of activities to mark the 2023 World Tuberculosis week, KNCV clinic/Wellness on Wheels, (WOW truck) has embarked on free TB testing and treatment across some communities in Benue state.
KNCV Tuberculosis Foundation Nigeria was birthed in Benue in October 2022, as part of government collaborative efforts to ensure safer health for the citizens in the state.
During the event, various locations in Makurdi the state capital and its environs, including Benue Links park, IBB Square, and general and private hospitals, were visited during which 912 persons were tested.
Speaking during the event, Dr Eze Chukwu of KNCV, told newsmen that six cases were confirmed and have been engaged for treatment with 45 others being presumptive.
He said his organization has partnered with the state government to end TB in the state by the year 2030.
According to the World Health Organization, (WHO), 1.6 million people died of Tuberculosis in 2021 globally.
The theme of this year’s celebration is, “Yes we can end TB”, aims at inspiring hope and encouraging high-level leadership, increased investments, faster uptake of new WHHO recommendations, accelerated actions and multi-sectoral collaboration to combat the TB epidemic.
In Benue, the day was marked in conjunction with the Federal and state ministries of health as well as Civil Society Organizations and Non Governmental organization in the fight against TB.
Speaking during a road walk, Director of Public Health at the ministry of health and human services, Dr Igbabo Agila said the state government has deliberately increased access to diagnosis and treatment for those suffering from TB saying the treatment is free.
Agila disclosed that Government has made it mandatory that in all the 23 LGAs of the state, there were treatment centres for TB.
The Programme Manager, TB, State Ministry of Health, Terrence Akir, said the military and its partners were making efforts in case finding of TB particularly in the rural areas. He called on the Benue people to make themselves available for testing, early detection and treatment.
