Shillong, March 24:Along with the rest of the world, the State also observed World Tuberculosis Day on the theme Unite to End TB.In the state capital, Shillong, the day was observed by the Meghalaya State Health Society, Revised National Tuberculosis Control Programme in collaboration with the District Health Society (RNTCP), East Khasi Hills, Government of Meghalaya at U Soso Tham Auditorium, Shillong wherein the Meghalaya Minister for Health and Family Welfare, Smti. Roshan Warjri was the Chief Guest. Also present among others were Shri. H M Shangpliang, Mission Director, NHM, Dr. R O Budnah, Director of Health Services (MI) and other health officials of the State.
In her address, Smti. Warjri said that World TB Day envisages to build public awareness on the effects of TB and also to be partners so that we can reduce, if not eradicate, this dreadful disease. She said that in the past, people are apprehensive to get themselves tested, fearing the taboo connected with it, but the time has come for each one of us to change our mindset regarding this health problem. TB can be cured if we create awareness and partner with all concerned to help people in timely detection and proper medication, she said. She informed that the government has made available facilities and treatment free of cost for the people of the State. Therefore, she called upon the health department and other line departments to work together and disseminate this important message to the masses especially to the remote areas so that we can prevent and curb this disease.
Shri. H M Shangpliang, Mission Director, NHM, in his speech, said that TB is a common and deceptive disease, where people suffer in quietness and spread it out to the families, the community and the society because they hesitate to go to the public hospital for fear of stigmatization. He said that it is important to aware the people about the basic and essential knowledge of tuberculosis, causes, prevention and cure. He said that the Government is ready to work together with NGOs and civil societies including health agencies in organising various campaigns related with this disease. Active participation is required by the communities and government agencies to broadcast the real messages to each and every individual.
In her keynote address, Dr. M. Hooroo, State Tuberculosis Officer, Meghalaya, gave a detailed overview of the TB situation in the world and the State of Meghalaya in particular. The Chief Guest felicitated Nazareth Hospital Laboratory, the RNTCP accredited Laboratory in the State of Meghalaya, for diagnosis and follow up test of MDR-TB. The Chief Guest also gave away prizes to the Best DOT Providers of the District.
The welcome address was delivered by Dr. R O Budnah, Director of Health Services (MI) while Dr. M Mawrie, District Tuberculosis Officer, East Khasi Hills proposed the vote of thanks. Skit by Rapsbun School of Nursing and welcome song by the staff of R P Chest Hospital were the other highlights of the programme.
