National Testing Week for Tuberculosis Commences in Bayelsa

Bayelsa State has joined the rest of the country to mark the maiden edition of the National Testing Week for Tuberculosis.

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The event was officially launched at the Swali Ultramodern market in Yenagoa the Bayelsa State capital.

Speaking to newsmen, Program Manager, Bayelsa State Tuberculosis and Leprosy Control Center, Dr Mabel Emudiaga-Ohwerhi noted that the event became necessary to create awareness on tuberculosis even though it is an age long disease.

Dr Emudiaga-Ohwerhi explained that many persons have forgotten about tuberculosis while many others are losing their lives to the disease that can be treated hence the need for more enlightenment as tuberculosis is still present in the country.

She further explained that persons should look out for symptoms such as cough lasting for two weeks or more, drenching night sweat, unexplained weight loss and fever which can easily be treated before it becomes complicated.

“People should use this week to make themselves available for the test, they should not wait till the point where it becomes drug resistant tuberculosis” she added.

The Tuberculosis Program Manager urged all residents of Bayelsa state to visit any health facility to get tested for tuberculosis adding that the test and treatment is free.

Some residents of Swali community who came out to take the test called on all Bayelsans not to express fear as the test is a simple and easy one.

National Testing Week for Tuberculosis Commences in Bayelsa

The National Testing Week for Tuberculosis is a one week event, from the 1st-7th August 2022 and the Bayelsa State Tuberculosis and Leprosy Control Center is expected to visit public places within the state to include correctional centres, markets and others.