Mangaluru: Deputy Commissioner A B Ibrahim inaugurated the ‘World Tuberculosis Day’ by lighting the traditional lamp at the Town Hall here, on March 24.
An awareness rally, mostly consisting of paramedical staff from various hospitals was flagged off by District Health Officer Dr Ramakrishna Rao, from the KMC hospital to the Town Hall.
The programme was organized by the District administration, Zilla Panchayat, Department of Health and Family Welfare, City Corporation, Wenlock Hospital, association for prevention of TB, various colleges of medical, nursing, physiotherapy and paramedical and other NGO’s.
Speaking on the occasion, Ibrahim said, “We should aim to make the district a tuberculosis (TB) free district. To achieve this, the district administration needs the help of all doctors and paramedical staff serving in the district. If we are successful in making this district tuberculosis (TB) free then we will be the first district or one of the few districts that have achieved this tag.”
He said that TB a grave disease that makes a human being weak in all aspects and the eradication of which is a must. “The district administration needs the help of all the medical personnel and I wish to inform them that the district administration is always with them,” he added.
DHO Dr Ramakrishna Rao in his introductory speech, spoke about the importance of World TB Day and gave vital information related to the disease to the gathering. He said that it was necessary to seek medical help incase a person had persistent cough for more than a period of two weeks. He said, “Once you know that you have contacted TB, then it is necessary to complete the drug course prescribed to you, or else, there is a high risk of developing a Multi-Drug Resistant TB (MDR-TB).” The treatment is given and drugs can be collected free of cost from the local health centres after being diagnosed. Preventive measure, to avoid contraction of TB is to maintain good immunity by consuming nutritious food.
The Director of Spandana Trust, Sr Evangeline was felicitated on the occasion for her selfless service to the sick and poor. She thanked all those who have rendered help to her trust and dedicated the rare honour to them. She said, “With the grace of God and Jesus Christ, we will continue to help the needy.”
Professor from KVG Medical College, Dr VN Holla also spoke on this occasion. District Medical Officer, Dr Rajeshwari Devi, Superintendent of Lady Goshen Hospital, Dr Savitha and others were also present.