DILI, 18 november 2024 (TATOLI) – One of the private health institutions located in Dili, namely Bairo-Pité Clinic, has registered 419 cases of tuberculosis from january until november, and the number is continuing to rise so far.
Tuberculosis remains a major public health threat throughout the country, particularly in the municipalities, including Dili.
The manager of the Tuberculosis (TB) program at the Bairo-Pite Clinic, José Maia Soares, said that of the 419 cases, 25 patients, including a child, have been admitted to the Maun Alin Iha Cristo Secular Institute (ISMAIC) Tibar to receive intensive treatment, while the rest are receiving treatment at the Bairo-Pite Clinic and taking regular medication.
“Our advice to these TB patients is to take their medication routinely for up to eight months in order to prevent fatalities and ensure effective treatment. Eight people from these 419 cases have died,” he added.
Soares pledged to continue working ‘untiredly’ with the members of his team to provide adequate treatment for tuberculosis patients who seek treatment at his clinic.
Tuberculosis (TB) is a bacterial infection spread through inhaling tiny droplets from the coughs or sneezes of an infected person.
It mainly affects the lungs, but it can affect any part of the body, including the tummy (abdomen), glands, bones, and nervous system.
In october 2021, the former Prime Minister, Taur Matan Ruak, signed a pledge to end TB in Timor-Leste and also launched the ‘National Plan for Accelerated Actions for Ending TB by 2025’.
Journalist: Camilio de Sousa
Editor: Rafael Ximenes de A. Belo
