The Katsina government has announced that it is making significant progress toward activating the drug-resistant tuberculosis (TB) centre located in Rimi Local Government Area (LGA) of the state.

The state’s commissioner for health, Musa Adamu-Funtua, disclosed this in Katsina while briefing the press as part of World TB Day celebrations.

The commissioner explained that World TB Day is observed on March 23 each year, with the 2025 theme, “We fit do am,” highlighting the nation’s determination to confront TB head-on.

According to the commissioner, the aim of reactivating the centre is to begin the treatment of drug-resistant TB across the state.

“In commemoration of World TB Day, the state’s TB, Leprosy, and Buruli Ulcer Control Programme, in collaboration with partners, have carried out several activities.

“These include sensitisation and advocacy campaigns in selected communities, TB outreach programmes across 11 Local Government Areas (LGAs), and media engagement to raise awareness and demand for TB services.”

Mr Adamu-Funtua urged the public to be aware of the signs and symptoms of TB and take necessary steps as advised by healthcare professionals.

“Symptoms include prolonged coughing with sputum for more than two weeks, coughing up blood or mucus mixed with blood, weight loss, chest pains, and shortness of breath.

“Other symptoms mentioned by the commissioner include low-grade fever, excessive night sweating, and a history of contact with someone who has a chronic cough.”

He stressed that anyone exhibiting these symptoms should immediately visit the nearest health facility for urgent testing and treatment.

In spite of the challenges posed by TB, the commissioner reaffirmed the state’s commitment, with support from partners, to eradicating the disease and improving the health and well-being of its citizens.

Mr Adamu-Funtua noted that Katsina had been performing well in the overall TB control programme nationwide.

“To complement the efforts of partners in fighting TB, leprosy, and Buruli ulcer, the state government has conducted TB outreach programmes across all 34 LGAs of the state.

“The government has also procured laptops for state TB technical officers and 34 TB LG supervisors, and is currently conducting a Buruli Ulcer Project across the state.

“I want to assure the public that the Katsina government, in collaboration with partners, will provide free testing, treatment, and care to any TB patient.

“We are intensifying efforts to locate all infected persons across the state by increasing TB testing and treatment,” said Adamu-Funtua.

He also advised the people of the state to protect themselves from contracting TB by avoiding prolonged contact with TB patients or suspected cases, and by reducing overcrowding, especially in living rooms.

“Live in a well-ventilated house or room, ensure every child is vaccinated with BCG at birth, and maintain a balanced diet.

“Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, and promptly report suspected cases to hospitals or clinics,” he added.

(NAN)