TB, Ninth Leading Cause Of Death -RSG

Tuberculosis (TB) remains the world’s leading infectious killer disease, being responsible for deaths of nearly 1.7million people each year and represents the ninth cause of death globally, the Rivers State Government has revealed.
Health Educator, Rivers State Ministry of Health, Dr Doris Nria, made the disclosure at Ala Polo Tourist Beach, Port Harcourt at the day two of the sensitisation campaign rallies as part of activities marking this year’s World Tuberculosis Day in Port Harcourt, yesterday.
Nria, who revealed the theme of this year’s commemoration, “Wanted: Leaders for a TB-Free Rivers State,” added that the devastating impact of TB on the society calls for concerted synergy of all stakeholders to free the state of the menace of TB.
Nria appealed to residents of the state to come out en masse for TB, Malaria and HIV test/screening and treatment, adding that the sensitisation was necessary to avail residents opportunity to easily access treatment for the diseases.
Some of the residents, who thronged the venue of the TB rally for tests, screening and treatment, commended the Rivers State Government for partnering with WHO, United State Agency for International Development (USAID), Global Fund and Family Health International (FHI) to bring much-needed succour to the door-steps of TB patients in the state.
One of the beneficiaries of the free test and screening, Mrs Becky Charles expressed satisfaction over the care and support given to the poor and sick by the state Governor, Chief Nyesom Wike through his pro-people health policies and programmes.
She noted that the governor was doing everything within available resources to rid the state of TB, and charged other governors and leaders in the South-South to emulate the governor’s kind gesture.

Susan Serekara-Nwikhana