The Kwara government, on Monday, asked residents of the state’s Oke-Ero Local Government Area (LGA) to be vigilant and immediately report to it individuals showing symptoms of tuberculosis (TB).

The state’s commissioner for health, Amina El-Imam, during the investiture of Oke-Ero Local Government Tuberculosis Ambassadors at Ilofa, asked the residents to report cases to the nearest government health facility.

She said this was necessary in order to avoid viral infection.

Mrs El-Imam stated that this approach was aimed at curbing the spread of the disease and ensuring early detection and treatment to avoid spreading the airborne disease.

“It is important to utilise government healthcare interventions, including medical outreaches, immunisation programmes and visits to public health facilities, to protect the community from contracting TB and other infectious diseases.

“Therefore, residents should support the campaign by spreading awareness and ensure that anyone showing symptoms of the ailment like persistent cough, weight loss, night sweats and fever seek immediate medical attention at the nearest government-approved facilities,” she added.

The commissioner reaffirmed the commitment of Gov. AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq to making quality healthcare services accessible to all residents.

She commended the traditional rulers in the LGA for their continued role as health advocates and therefore encouraged them to remain proactive in the fight against TB.

Also at the event, the director of public health, Oluwatosin Fakayode, urged citizens to take advantage of the state’s free TB vaccination and treatment.

Mr Fakayode said this would enable them to get tested and treated if positive, adding that early detection and treatment were crucial in eliminating the disease from the state.

Equally, the chairman of Oke-Ero Local Government, Abiodun Fadipe, expressed deep appreciation for the government’s efforts at tackling tuberculosis, especially at the grassroots.

He assured of his administration’s commitment to supporting tuberculosis elimination initiatives and enhancing public health within the area.

The event was well attended by critical stakeholders, including the member representing Oke-Ero in the Kwara House of Assembly, Joseph Bamgboye.

The chairman of Ekiti Local Government, Gabriel Awelewa, and Oba Samuel Dada, the Alofa of Ilofa, alongside other traditional rulers and community leaders, were also in attendance.

(NAN)