Some of the attendees World Tuberculosis Day held under the theme "Yes We Can End TB” at the Chief Medical Office Conference Hall, Mokokchung on March 24. (Morung Photo)
Morung Express News
Mokokchung | March 24
The National Tuberculosis Elimination Programmes (NTEP), District Tuberculosis Centre, Mokokchung observed World Tuberculosis Day on March 24 on the theme, "Yes we can end TB” at the Chief Medical Office (CMO), Conference Hall, Mokokchung.
Thsüvisie Phoj Deputy Commissioner and Chairman, District Health Society, Mokokchung addressed the gathering with a short speech where he lauded the TB Doctors and health service providers, stating, "Health workers are the unsung heroes of human race. Today is a day to acknowledge the doctors.” He further added, the best way to acknowledge them is by understanding that everyone is equally responsible and to do one's part in creating awareness.
Dr R Toshimenla. Jamir, District TB Officer gave a talk on the significance of the day. She asserted that TB is known to be the oldest known infection, a major health problem which is listed as one of the ten causes of deaths world-wide. She also said that stigma is so high that in many communities, people hide symptoms and refuse treatment. She explained that due to global efforts to combat TB, millions of lives have been saved since 2000. She concluded her speech by urging every stake-holders and individual to put the spotlight of taking health inequalities including stigma and discrimination to ensure health for all.
With the effort and supervision of NTEP, District TB centre, four villages under Mokokchung District, Aoküm, Satsü, Changtongya New and Liroyim were felicitated and declared as TB Mukht Panchayats (TB free villages). With the target of elimination of TB in the districts, 45 Nikshay Mitras are registered in Mokokchung, who have been adopting TB patients and providing nutrition.
The programme was chaired by Sentirenla, District consultant NHUM. Two TB champions Arkumla Jamir and Benjungnungsang gave testimony as TB cured patients. Dr Kibangkumba Chief Medical Officer, Mokokchung gave the welcome addressed and Dr Maongtula delivered the vote of thanks. The programme was attended by district administration, stake holders, health workers, church leaders, village and ward councils and media persons. World TB day has been observed since 1882.
