Ending the Scourge of Tuberculosis in Nasarawa State: A Call to Action

Tuberculosis (TB) remains a major public health threat in Nasarawa State, claiming lives and affecting the productivity of individuals, particularly those in economically active age groups. 

In 2024 alone, the state recorded 8,190 TB cases, with 35 individuals succumbing to the disease due to its severity. These alarming statistics have spurred urgent action, and the state government is leaving no stone unturned in its relentless fight against TB.

Under the leadership of the Honourable Commissioner for Health, Dr. Gaza Gwamna, the Nasarawa State Government has ramped up its efforts to combat TB. Recognizing the multifaceted challenges posed by the disease, the government has expanded diagnosis, enhanced treatment access, and forged stronger partnerships with development agencies and community stakeholders. 

However, officials acknowledge that the success of these efforts hinges on the collective involvement of government bodies, healthcare workers, and the public.

A cornerstone of the government’s strategy has been the expansion of free TB screening and treatment services across all government healthcare facilities. To reach even the most remote areas, mobile screening teams have been deployed, ensuring that residents in rural communities receive timely diagnosis and care. This initiative is coupled with a robust public awareness campaign, which aims to educate citizens about the symptoms of TB and the importance of early detection.

The challenge of TB is further compounded by the high rate of TB-HIV co-infection. In 2024, 21% of TB patients were also living with HIV, necessitating closer collaboration between the state’s TB and HIV programs to provide comprehensive care for co-infected patients. Alongside this, the emergence of drug-resistant TB (DRTB) poses a new hurdle, with 60 cases recorded in the same year. To tackle this, the government has ensured that the 10-bed DRTB Treatment Centre at ERCC Hospital, Alushi, remains fully operational and well-equipped to handle complex cases.

Children have not been spared by TB, with 627 cases detected among those aged 0-14 years, accounting for 8.5% of total cases in 2024. In response, the government has intensified efforts to improve case detection among children by introducing school-based TB screening programs and providing specialized training for teachers and healthcare workers. Additionally, targeted interventions have been launched in local government areas with a high burden of TB, such as Nasarawa, Nasarawa Eggon, Obi, Awe, Wamba, and Toto, where a significant number of cases have been recorded.

Despite these comprehensive measures, officials stress that the fight against TB cannot be won by the government alone. Public support is essential in breaking the cycle of transmission. Since TB spreads through the air, anyone can be infected, which makes it imperative for individuals to recognize the symptoms—such as a persistent cough lasting two weeks or more, weight loss, night sweats, low-grade fever, and chest pain—and seek medical attention promptly. Early detection not only increases the likelihood of successful treatment but also helps prevent further spread of the disease.

A major challenge in TB control is the stigma that often surrounds the disease. Many patients suffer in silence due to fear of discrimination, which in turn delays treatment and contributes to higher transmission rates. It is crucial for communities to support TB patients rather than isolate them. With TB being a curable disease, those undergoing treatment require empathy and encouragement to complete their medication, thereby preventing complications and the development of drug resistance.

Preventive measures form another vital pillar in the fight against TB. Residents are urged to adopt simple practices, such as covering their mouths when coughing or sneezing and ensuring proper ventilation in their homes, to minimize the risk of transmission. Regular TB screening for individuals experiencing symptoms is also strongly encouraged, as every proactive measure can contribute to reducing the overall spread of the disease in the state.

In summary, the Nasarawa State Government has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to eliminating TB through free healthcare services, community outreach, and strengthened disease control measures. However, the ultimate success of these initiatives depends on the proactive participation of all residents. Every individual has a role to play—whether it is by seeking early diagnosis, supporting those affected, or spreading awareness about the disease.

Tuberculosis is preventable, curable, and its treatment is free. By working together, we can build a healthier Nasarawa State and bring an end to TB once and for all.