The IFP in KwaZulu-Natal is asking residents to familiarise themselves with signs and symptoms of tuberculosis (TB), as we commemorate World Tuberculosis (TB) Day on the 24th March.
“The focus of the day must be about educating adolescents and homeless people about TB. Adolescents are usually at school during the daytime when TB screening are done in clinics. We need wider screening of TB in schools. Above that we need to focus to homeless people roaming the streets in our towns. These people need to be screened and get medication on time if they are found to be infected with TB,” said IFP KZN Provincial Spokesperson on Health, Mrs Ncamisile Nkwanyana MPL.
“We must be proactive in eradicating TB. We all have a stake in ending TB. We urgently need stronger political will from provincial and national government to ensure sustained funding and resources are invested into efforts to end TB. We need to do much more if we are to end TB epidemic. For TB to be eradicated, it is essential we demonstrate its relevance to every single government department.
Anyone who has been coughing for more than two weeks, has a fever and sweating at night, loss of appetite and weight, tiredness, a general feeling of illness, shortness of breath, chest pains and sometimes blood-stained sputum, must visit any health facility for proper and early diagnosis. Most community members come to clinics when they are already too sick, after having been exposed unknowingly to the disease. Of serious concern is the high drop-out rate amongst those who are on treatment. They must complete the full course of treatment if they wish to be fully cured,” continued Mrs Nkwanyana.
“Furthermore, the IFP calls on employers to allow employees to go to the clinic to be tested for TB – no one should lose their job if they are on TB treatment. In addition, government must do more in fighting TB in the mining sector,” concluded Mrs Nkwanyana.
Issued by:
Mrs Ncamisile Nkwanyana MPL
IFP Spokesperson on Health
078 302 3991