Union minister of health and family welfare Shri Mansukh Mandaviya chairs High Level Meet with all States to review Public Health gains against Tuberculosis.
Key takeaways from the meet:
The minister assured that the Union government is open to all suggestions from the States/UTs on Tuberculosis in its mission to fulfil Prime Minister’s dream of a TB Free India by 2025.
He also encouraged the States and UTs to provide suggestions on the Public Health Management of COVID and other programs and initiatives of the Union Health Ministry.
On the threat to the gains made against TB due to COVID-19, he spoke on the ramping up of COVID Vaccination in the recent days and also highlighted the importance of vaccinating all teachers by the 5th of September for which additional doses are being provided to the States.
He encouraged states to ensure that COVID protocols are continued to be followed and no laxity in shown due to improved situation in the country.
He emphasised on encouraging the common people to join us in this mission for eradicating TB. It has to be made a people’s initiative.
TB and COVID-19:
The World Health Organization (WHO) is advising Member States that are leading the response to the unfolding COVID-19 pandemic.
The WHO Global TB Programme, along with WHO regional and country offices, has developed an information note, in collaboration with stakeholders.
This note is intended to assist national TB programmes and health personnel to urgently maintain continuity of essential services for people affected with TB during the COVID-19 pandemic, driven by innovative people-centred approaches, as well as maximizing joint support to tackle both diseases.
It is important that the progress made in TB prevention and care is not reversed by the COVID19 pandemic. Finding and treating people with TB remain the fundamental pillars of TB prevention and care and those would require maintained attention.
