TB Network Nigeria launches August campaign urging early testing and stigma reduction
The Civil Society for the Eradication of Tuberculosis in Nigeria (TB Network) has kicked off the month of August with a strong public health message calling on Nigerians to prioritise early detection and treatment of tuberculosis.
In a new awareness poster released at the start of the month, the organisation emphasised that a new month offers another opportunity for people to protect their own health and that of their families. The campaign centres on the message “TB Can Be Cured” and encourages anyone with a persistent cough lasting two weeks or more to seek a free TB test at designated health facilities.
Key facts highlighted in the material include:
– Tuberculosis is an infectious disease that mainly affects the lungs but can also involve other parts of the body.
– Common symptoms include a cough lasting two weeks or longer, chest pain, unexplained weight loss, fever, night sweats and tiredness.
– The disease spreads through the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes or talks.
– TB is fully curable when detected early and treated correctly with the right medicines.
The organisation also stressed the need to reduce stigma surrounding the disease so that more people feel confident to seek care without fear. “Early detection saves lives. Protect yourself and your family,” the campaign states.
TB Network Nigeria, which works across the country to support the national TB response, is urging the public to “choose health this month.” Its message is clear: together, Nigerians can end TB and build a TB-free country.
Since last year PROFOH has been on the front-line to Kick TB Out of Rivers with funds provided by UN agency , Global Fund for HIV, TB and Malaria, that trickled down to the National TB network of Nigeria.
In a related development, PROFOH is working very heard with the Rivers State To strengthen our collaboration to expand Communities Health Insurance access in Rivers State, we hope to expand this access to other states in the Niger Delta region of Nigeria.
The campaign materials direct people to visit www.tbnetworkng.org or follow @TBNetworkNigeria on social media for more information and updates on available services.
