DALCY LULUA
MORESBY South, despite being a relatively small district within the nation’s capital, is grappling with a significant tuberculosis (TB) challenge.
This was highlighted by Dr. Margaret Kal, the National TB Project Manager.
Speaking at the Koki-Wanigela TB Health Program – Systematic Screening Intervention (SSI), Dr. Kal revealed that the district has one of the highest TB case records in the National Capital District (NCD).
Over the course of seven weeks, more than 6,000 individuals underwent screening, leading to the detection of nearly 200 patients. The alarming rate of detection, identifying one TB patient for every 30 people screened, emphasizes the severity of the issue in Moresby South. Dr. Kal estimated that, at this rate, there could be between 30,000 to 40,000 TB patients in the district.
Over the course of seven weeks, more than 6,000 individuals underwent screening, leading to the detection of nearly 200 patients. The alarming rate of detection, identifying one TB patient for every 30 people screened, emphasizes the severity of the issue in Moresby South. Dr. Kal estimated that, at this rate, there could be between 30,000 to 40,000 TB patients in the district.
To address this health crisis, Dr Kal stressed the importance of sustaining such screening programs to locate and treat all individuals with TB successfully.
She urged the residents of Moresby South to utilize the readily available services, including screening, testing, and same-day result delivery.
Koki village holds the distinction of being the first to access these crucial services. Dr. Kal expressed concern for others in need who lack similar access.
She urged the residents of Moresby South to utilize the readily available services, including screening, testing, and same-day result delivery.
Koki village holds the distinction of being the first to access these crucial services. Dr. Kal expressed concern for others in need who lack similar access.
Member for Moresby South, Justin Tkatchenko, echoed this concern, acknowledging the gravity of the situation in his electorate and pledging full support for the project.
Tkatchenko also announced plans to establish testing sites in various areas of Moresby South, such as Kaugere, Sabama, Kogeva, and Vadavada, over the next two weeks.
Tkatchenko also announced plans to establish testing sites in various areas of Moresby South, such as Kaugere, Sabama, Kogeva, and Vadavada, over the next two weeks.
He encouraged residents to actively participate in the screening process, emphasizing that TB is a disease that spreads within communities.
Tkatchenko reassured the public that testing services are free and urged those feeling unwell not to hesitate in seeking assistance.
Tkatchenko reassured the public that testing services are free and urged those feeling unwell not to hesitate in seeking assistance.
Meanwhile, Tkatchenko affirmed his commitment to collaborate with the National Capital District Provincial Health Authority and the Department of Health to address the escalating TB cases in Moresby South, highlighting the importance of a collective effort to combat the disease.
