The Kano State government says it has intensified efforts to combat tuberculosis (TB), with 720 patients successfully treated in the past year.

The state commissioner for health, Abubakar Yusuf, disclosed this during activities to mark the 2026 World TB Day in Kano on Tuesday.

According to him, 913 persons were diagnosed with the disease in the state, while 720 were successfully treated.

Mr Yusuf said the state remained among the leading states in the country in the prevention and control of TB, pointing out that the government had scaled up interventions to curb its spread.

He described tuberculosis as a major public health concern, adding that the disease is airborne and spreads easily if not properly managed.

Mr Yusuf listed the common symptoms of TB to include persistent cough, excessive sweating and significant weight loss.

The commissioner said the state government was committed to eliminating TB through sustained initiatives, including renovating Yada Kunya General Hospital, to enhance treatment and care for patients.

He commended Governor Abba Yusuf for his continued support for the health sector and for his efforts to strengthen disease control programmes.

Mr Yusuf explained that development partners had deployed mobile healthcare vehicles to improve access to diagnosis and treatment services in different communities.

He urged residents to seek prompt medical attention when they experience symptoms, saying early detection and treatment are critical to stopping the spread of the disease.

(NAN)