Dimapur, March 24 (MExN): District Health Society - Revised National Tuberculosis Control Programme (RNTCP), Dimapur observed World Tuberculosis Day together with NGOs on March 24 at Chavara Home. Chief Medical Officer (CMO), Dimapur, Dr. MA Wati was the chief guest.
The CMO outlined the importance of following strict treatment regimen in curing TB. “TB is an infection, which can be cured but many people don’t take it seriously, often stopping medication midway” resulting in drug resistance. He said that treatment is a long process, but if patients as well as care givers follow the treatment as advised by a medical professional, it can be completely cured, the CMO said. Medication and a healthy diet will go a long way in battling the infection, the CMO said, while adding that maintaining personal hygiene is also crucial.
When the body’s immune system weakens, the body becomes prone to infection. HIV patients, if left unattended, are vulnerable to TB. District TB Officer, Dr. Khelito Zhimomi highlighted the activities of the district RNTCP. According to figures made available, 38 Multi Drug Resistant TB cases have been registered so far. In the treatment aspect, a total of 917 TB patients were put on treatment during January-December 2013, while recording a treatment success rate of 85 percent.
