EDITOR
The Ntungamo District Health Department is urging tuberculosis (TB) patients to seek immediate medical attention to prevent the disease from spreading to others.
While speaking to Boona Radio, Robert Ochom, the Ntungamo District Assistant Health Educator in charge of TB, emphasized that TB is a curable disease and can be treated at any time once it is detected. He explained that tuberculosis is an airborne disease that spreads from one person to another, especially in congested places such as bars, markets, public transport like buses and taxis, and places of worship.
Robert noted that the district records at least 75 new TB cases, mostly in areas of Ruhaama East and Ruhaama Main, as well as parts of Rushenyi and Itojo.
He attributed the rising TB cases to factors such as misuse of drugs like alcohol, which weakens the body’s immune system, as well as to people living with HIV/AIDS and diabetes. Other risk factors include living in congested environments like prisons, homes, and bars without proper ventilation. He urged the public to regularly visit nearby health centers for checkups, avoid crowded places, wear face masks in public, and ensure that buildings used by many people have proper ventilation.
Robert highlighted the symptoms of TB as a persistent cough lasting over two weeks, chest pain, coughing up blood, evening fevers, weight loss, and poor health among adults. In infants, symptoms may include stunted growth despite proper feeding and care.
He warned that TB is a deadly disease that can only be controlled through proper treatment. It does not follow any seasonal pattern but rather depends on the body’s ability to fight off the infection. He advised TB patients to isolate themselves until they complete treatment and recover, rather than risking the health of others by going out in public.
