Lakes State commemorates World TB Day with significant decrease in infections
In 2024, the State registered 126,837 cases among males and 310 in females, including children.
By Anak Dut
Authorities in Lakes State yesterday marked the World Tuberculosis Day with a significant decrease in the infections from the disease.
Speaking while marking the World TB Day in Rumbek, Dr. Maker Malok, the Director General in the State Ministry of Health, hailed the high level of cooperation in the community in the fight against the disease.
He noted that the TB patients in Lakes State have understood the need for TB medication as they come to health facilities for regular tests.
“Most of the cases identified are also continuing with the treatment.”
According to him, in 2024, the State registered 1226,837 cases among males and 310 in females, including children.
Dr. Maker pointed out that the cases have been decreasing compared to the previous years and that the patients are complying with the treatment.
“Except a few cases that test positive and do not return for medication due to stigma from the communities and relatives.”
However, he noted a gap in some institutions, such as schools and prisons, where he said congestion has been a challenge.
On his part, the Director General in the State Ministry of Gender, Child and Social Welfare, Peter Gum Ater, said TB is a treatable disease and can easily be cured if procedures are well followed.
He called on the breastfeeding and pregnant mothers to go for check-ups to prevent further infections.
“We should stop going for witchcraft whenever we are sick because some diseases do not require witch doctors but medication from the hospital,” he added.
Meanwhile, Jacob Maker Majak, the Health personnel in charge of the health facilities in the prison, confirmed that three prisoners are infected with TB and are currently undergoing treatment within the prison in isolation.
“We should stop going for witchcraft whenever we are sick because some diseases do not require witch doctors but medication from the hospital,” the Director General in the State Ministry of Gender, Child and Social Welfare, Peter Gum Ater, said.