TB, new smear positives are threats in Morobe

MOROBE province is rated second in the country with 1,576 confirmed TB cases and 518 new smear positives (NSP) while multi-drug résistance figures are yet to be verified, says provincial TB and leprosy coordinator Helen Palik.
Most reported cases were within Lae district identified through direct observed treatment strategy (DOTS) 30 committed volunteer treatment partners (VTP) in seven health centres from six urban wards.
 “Overall smear positive detection in the province is 100 cases per quarter.
“Case detection is possible but problem is case management.
“That’s when implementing TB DOTS element 3 and 4-standardised treatment with supervision and patient support including effective drug supply and management system is crucial,” Palik said.
“NSP is dangerous that can easily infect 10 people, hence people need to identify quickly and advise a person that coughs for more than three weeks to seek medical assistance in nearest clinics.”
Major companies, non-governmental and faith based organisations including theatre groups in Lae district showed interest to support and promote the advocacy and eradication of the airborne disease in settlement homes and workplaces.
Trukai Industries Ltd, Mainland Holdings Ltd, FTM Construction Ltd and Coca-Cola Amatil Ltd responded favourably to assist in kind during provincial World TB day celebration on  March 23.
Huon Gulf and Nawaeb districts will join the hosting district to celebrate at Niall Reserve, Eriku with this year’s national theme ‘stop TB in my life time’ while provincial theme ‘support DOTS to eradicate TB’.
World Vision provincial advocacy communication and social mobilization (ACSM) coordinator Tresa Nahuet said that lead up advocacy activities include umbrella stalls to educate people about TB will be held in identified locations on specific days.
First 100 PMV buses in city will be given two stickers each and will reach out into Bulolo and Markham.