The Benue State government has successfully treated over 1,939 patients for Tuberculosis (TB) within three months as part of its Tuberculosis Programme. Dr. Kaior Akaangee, the State Program Manager for Tuberculosis, Leprosy, and Buruli Ulcer Control, made this announcement in Makurdi, highlighting the effective implementation of the program.
From April 1 to June 30, 2024, the patients were treated and discharged without any recorded deaths during their treatment, thanks to the strict and comprehensive care provided. Dr. Akaangee praised Governor Hyacinth Alia for the significant budget allocation to the TB program, emphasizing that timely funding and capacity building for health workers are crucial for achieving targets in TB management.
The program has evolved since its initiation in 2001, focusing on active TB case finding across the state. Currently, all 23 Local Government Areas (LGAs) in Benue engage in TB case finding and treatment. As of June 30, 2024, 1,939 patients were on treatment for various forms of TB, based on validated cases rather than just diagnoses.
Dr. Akaangee urged the public to seek medical assistance for any suspected TB cases, noting the presence of a treatment center for drug-resistant TB at St. Vincent Hospital in Aliade. Additionally, those with latent TB and close contacts of infected individuals are placed on Tuberculosis Preventive Treatment (TPT).
Despite the successes, Dr. Akaangee identified several challenges, including inadequate funding, ineffective monitoring, and low case finding in children. He called for increased stakeholder involvement and collaboration to enhance efforts in eliminating TB in the state