Ondo State Programme Manager for Tuberculosis, Buruli Ulcer and Leprosy Control Programme, Dr. Oluwafemi Aina, has called for early diagnosis of Tuberculosis to prevent it from damaging internal organs.
Aina made the call at a programme to commemorate this year's Tuberculosis Day with the theme "The clock is ticking".
Three events were put together concurrently to mark this year's world tuberculosis day in Ondo state, southwest Nigeria.
A walk and awareness rally was organised in Akure, the state capital to sensitise members of the public on the need for early diagnosis and treatment of Tuberculosis.
The walk which started at the University of Medical Sciences Teaching Hospital, Akure climaxed at the palace of the Deji of Akure, Oba Aladetoyinbo Aladelusi.
At the palace, the Akure monarch pledged his support for the fight against tuberculosis .
Also, a Community Sensitization & Boat trip in Ese-Odo took place at Arogbo.
The Paramount Ruler of Arogbo was on ground to commemorate with the Team & set the day rolling with Royal Blessings.
Similarly, a Community Sensitization & Road Walk in Owo was carried out in conjunction with the NYSC Health CDS Group Owo.
Dr. Aina while speaking on the three programmes, stressed the need to raise more awareness on the debilitating socio-physical effects of the medical condition.
He said this would prompt people to go for early diagnosis and treatment of the disease.
He said, "Studies have shown that tuberculosis is one of the world's deadliest infectious diseases causing the death of about 4, 000 people in Nigeria annually.
"This year's theme "the clock is ticking", emphasizes the need for quick action and collaboration towards ending tuberculosis.
Dr. Aina answering questions from newsmen
He advised people to visit hospitals when they have persistent cough, saying early diagnosis often help in the treatment of the disease and also prevent it from damaging internal organs.
Dr. Aina said the risk of tuberculosis was high with the Covid-19 pandemic urging people to take their health seriously.
