The Evolving Face of TB in Kozhikode: A Call for Vigilance
Multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB),a growing threat to global health,is causing increasing concern in Kozhikode district.
With 78 cases reported in 2024, a slight rise from 75 in 2023, the district is actively focusing on preventing further spread through a thorough 100-day TB eradication campaign launched by the Health department. This campaign aims to raise awareness about the disease, encourage early diagnosis, and ensure adherence to treatment regimens.
Tuberculosis (TB) is a contagious disease caused by the bacteria Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It primarily affects the lungs and can be spread through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes.MDR-TB, a more dangerous form of the disease, arises when the bacteria develop resistance to two of the moast effective TB drugs, rifampicin and isoniazid.
“The bacteria develop resistance to the medicines if they are stopped midway through the treatment. The treatment will have to be prolonged than. Multi-drug resistant TB cases are a cause for concern across the State,”
states a Health official, emphasizing the importance of completing the full course of treatment, which typically lasts six to nine months.
One of the primary challenges in combating TB, especially MDR-TB, is patient adherence to treatment. Some patients, overwhelmed by the length of the regimen, might discontinue their medication after a couple of months. This practice allows the bacteria to develop resistance, leading to a more challenging and prolonged treatment process.
Adding to the complexity are patients who self-medicate with over-the-counter drugs, delaying proper diagnosis and treatment. ”Some others seek treatment for cough and fever, but do not undergo the TB test. They may feel better for a week or so, but the problems will recur. Delaying treatment like this will lead to the infection spreading to others. Official data suggest that one patient can transmit the infection to at least 10 to 20 others a year in India,”
explains the official, highlighting the critical role of early detection and intervention in preventing further transmission.
According to figures from the district TB office, 2,081 people are currently undergoing treatment for TB in Kozhikode. Alarmingly, 56 new cases were reported this month alone. In 2024, 44,523 individuals were examined, with 2,173 diagnosed with TB, resulting in 188 deaths. A similar picture emerged in 2023,with 43,107 people examined,2,132 diagnosed with TB,and 204 deaths.
The ongoing nationwide campaign seeks to reduce the number of TB patients to one per 1,000 people in each grama panchayat by 2025. Marking its culmination on March 24, World Tuberculosis Day, this campaign underscores the government’s commitment to eradicating this debilitating disease.
The good news is that testing and treatment for TB are absolutely free at all government hospitals.
Let us all join hands in supporting this critical initiative to make India TB-free.
Published - January 23, 2025 07:50 pm IST
What are the key objectives of the 100-day TB e campaign in Kozhikode?
Interview with dr. Sneha Menon,District TB Officer,Kozhikode
Archyde: Good day,Dr.Menon. Thank you for taking the time to speak with us today about the evolving situation of multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) in Kozhikode.
Dr. Menon: Thank you for having me. I’m always happy to raise awareness about this critical public health issue.
Archyde: The latest figures show a slight increase in MDR-TB cases in Kozhikode,from 75 in 2023 to 78 in 2024. While this may seem like a small rise, what does this trend signify for the district?
Dr. Menon: Indeed, while the numbers may seem modest, it’s essential to recognize that even a single case is one to many. This incremental increase reflects the seriousness of the MDR-TB threat and the ongoing challenge we face in containing its spread. It underscores the need for constant vigilance and complete action.
Archyde: Can you tell us more about the 100-day TB e campaign that Kozhikode district has initiated to combat this issue?
Dr. Menon: Absolutely. The 100-day TB e campaign is a strategic, intensive effort to strengthen our response to MDR-TB. The ‘e’ stands for ‘enhanced,’ as it involves enhanced case finding, enhanced contact tracing, and enhanced patient support services. Our aim is to intensify our efforts to prevent further multiplying of drug-resistant strains in the district.
Archyde: How will this campaign help improve the current situation?
Dr. Menon: The campaign will help in several ways. First, it will allow us to diagnose more cases by actively screening high-risk groups, such as healthcare workers, prisoners, and immigrants.Early detection is pivotal in controlling the spread. Second, it will help us trace and monitor close contacts of TB patients, ensuring they are also tested and treated, if necessary. Lastly, it will bolster our support services for patients, including nutrition, psychological counseling, and adherence support, which are all crucial for effective treatment outcomes.
Archyde: MDR-TB is often associated with previous treatment failures. What’s being done to ensure that current TB patients complete their treatment successfully and don’t contribute to drug resistance?
dr. Menon: You’re absolutely right. Unlesiahmann Good treatment adherence is key to preventing drug resistance. We have a robust direct observed treatment short course (DOTS) strategy in place to ensure patients take their medication as prescribed. We’re also implementing digital health solutions like MBC-LAB to monitor treatment progress and adherence. Moreover,we’re continuously educating patients and communities about the importance of completing the full course of treatment.
Archyde: Lastly, Dr. Menon,what message would you like to convey to the general public about MDR-TB and the 100-day TB e campaign?
Dr. Menon: I would like to urge everyone to be aware of the signs and symptoms of TB, and to come forward for testing if they suspect they might have the disease. The 100-day TB e campaign is an opportunity for us to work together towards a TB-free Kozhikode. I also want to assure the public that we have robust systems in place to ensure safety and confidentiality. Together, we can overcome this challenge.
Archyde: Thank you for your insightful responses, Dr. Menon. We look forward to seeing the positive impact of the 100-day TB e campaign on the MDR-TB situation in Kozhikode.
Dr. menon: Thank you. Let’s work together to create a TB-free world,starting with Kozhikode.
END OF INTERVIEW
