Nagaland is intensifying its efforts to achieve the national target of eliminating tuberculosis (TB) by 2025, as revealed by State TB Officer Dr Vezokholu Theyo. According to Dr Theyo, Nagaland reported 4,284 active TB cases in 2023, with the highest number of cases recorded in Dimapur (2044) and the lowest in Longleng (49).
Dr Theyo further informed that 78 villages in the state have been declared TB-free for a year, with Phek district alone contributing 34 villages to this achievement.
Meanwhile, in Mokokchung, four villages – Liroyim, Aokum, Changtongya Yimsen, and Satsu – were felicitated and declared as TB Mukht Panchayats (TB-free villages).
To support the elimination efforts at the district level, 45 Nikshay Mitras have been registered in Mokokchung. These individuals are actively involved in adopting TB patients and providing them with necessary nutrition and support.
In observance of World TB Day, the National Tuberculosis Elimination Programme (NTEP) organized events across the state of Nagaland. Director of Health Services, Dr Akuo Sorhie, urged individuals to take personal responsibility in the fight against TB, emphasizing its preventable and curable nature. Dr Sorhie highlighted the need for concerted efforts to aggressively combat the disease, which continues to pose a threat to lives, society, and the country.
Director Health Services Dr Akuo Sorhie challenged the people to take a pledge of fighting the preventable and curable disease as one’s own individual responsibility in order to ensure a TB-free state. Pointing out that Tuberculosis continues to be a threat to many lives, the society and the country, she called for concerted efforts to aggressively fight against the disease.
World TB Day observed in Mokokchung
Thsüvisie Phoji, NCS Deputy Commissioner and Chairman of the District Health Society, Mokokchung, reflected on the historical challenges posed by TB, noting its transformation from a once incurable disease to a curable one due to advancements in medical research and treatment. He emphasized the importance of community awareness and involvement in spreading knowledge about TB.
Dr R Toshimenla Jamir, Mokokchung District TB Officer, highlighted the persistent challenges of TB, including lack of knowledge and the social and economic ostracism faced by patients. Dr. Jamir urged all stakeholders and individuals to address health inequalities, stigma, and discrimination, emphasizing the need for collective action to ensure health for all.
As Nagaland continues its fight against TB, these efforts underscore the importance of community engagement, awareness, and collaboration in achieving the goal of a TB-free state by 2025.