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News Summary
Prepared following editorial review.
- In the current fiscal year, 623 tuberculosis cases have been reported in Chitwan, including 27 children under 14 years of age.
- Since mid-July, out of 5,382 tested individuals, 287 were diagnosed with non-contagious TB and 336 with contagious TB.
- Health workers advise patients diagnosed with tuberculosis to regularly take free medication and consult a doctor if symptoms appear.
March 24, Chitwan – In the current fiscal year, 623 individuals in the district have been diagnosed with tuberculosis. Among them, 27 are children under 14 years old, including four who are younger than four years.
According to Jayaram Duwadi, leprosy and tuberculosis officer at the Public Health Office, 5,382 people have been tested since mid-July. Of those tested, 287 cases were diagnosed as non-contagious tuberculosis, and 336 as contagious tuberculosis. Seven cases were identified as drug-resistant TB.
Patients are receiving regular medication from 107 drug distribution centers across the district. The district has 28 microscopy centers and four gene expert facilities for tuberculosis confirmation. Microscopy testing of 3,081 people confirmed tuberculosis in 143 cases, while gene expert testing of 2,301 people detected infection in 307 cases. Of the infected, 235 are women and 388 are men.
In the previous fiscal year, tuberculosis was diagnosed in 1,089 people, with 22 deaths attributed to the disease. A total of 13,107 people were tested last year. Tuberculosis is caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Early symptoms include fatigue and weakness during normal activities.
Ignoring these symptoms can worsen the condition. Persistent cough and fever are early indicators of tuberculosis and typically improve within five days. However, if coughing persists, fever continues, or cough lasts more than two weeks, immediate medical consultation is essential.
Patients diagnosed with tuberculosis are advised to avoid tobacco and to stop its use immediately if already consuming. Excessive alcohol, drugs, and other medications should also be avoided.
Health officials recommend completing the regular free medication course, which lasts 6 to 8 months, and undergoing periodic testing after starting treatment.
