FG seeks urgent collaboration on childhood TB crisis
The Federal Government says in spite of efforts to combat tuberculosis (TB) in Nigeria, the country continues to grapple with crisis in childhood TB, posing a significant threat to public health.
Dr Anyaike Chukwuma, Director of Public Health at the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, announced this in Abuja on Friday, at the conclusion of the National Childhood TB Steering Committee (NCTSC) first quarter review.
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The meeting focused on updating members on the latest developments in childhood TB control and finalising national guidelines for integrating TB care with Reproductive, Maternal, Newborn, Child, Adolescent Health, and Nutrition (RMNCAH+N) services.
Chukwuma said that with an alarming gap in detection and treatment, there was a need for stakeholders to underscore the urgent need for collaboration across sectors to address the issue.
According to him, in recent data, the country reported its highest TB notification in 2022, yet childhood TB cases remain vastly underdiagnosed and underreported.
He said that the shortfall not only endangered the health of affected children but also contributes to the nation’s high under-5 mortality rate.
He said that recognising the gravity of the situation,the ministry took steps to establish the National Childhood TB Steering Committee (NCTSC), to advise on effective control strategies.
He, however, said that sustained commitment and collaboration were essential to ensure timely detection and treatment, ultimately saving lives and reducing the burden of TB in the country.
“In response to this call to action, stakeholders from government agencies, healthcare providers, NGOs, and the private sector are coming together to develop comprehensive approaches to childhood TB control.
“These efforts include integrating TB care with RMNCAH+N services and implementing innovative, people-centered approaches,” he said.
He underscored the importance of finding missing children with TB through integrated services, aligning with national health sector priorities.
Dr Shehu Labaran, Director and National Coordinator of the NTBLCP, echoed this sentiment, stressing the need for collaborative, evidence-based interventions to address the childhood TB crisis effectively.
According to Labaran, as the country grapples with the dual challenges of childhood TB and the broader TB epidemic, stakeholders were united in their determination to forge ahead with renewed vigour.
He said the aim was to turn the tide on childhood TB, ultimately saving lives and securing a healthier future for all.
NAN/Wumi
