World Tuberculosis Day, observed on 24th of March every year, is a day dedicated to raise public awareness about the global epidemic of tuberculosis (TB) and efforts to eliminate the disease. This day acknowledges the need for worldwide unity in the fight against TB, support for people living with TB and to commemorate those who have died of TB. This day is important as it reminds us that TB has not gone away and there is still a vital need to fight against it by increasing awareness and education about how to prevent ourselves from this disease. In a manner of speaking, this day provides us with an opportunity to learn the facts about TB and put our knowledge into action.
To mark the World Tuberculosis Day this year, Punjab Health Department designed a comprehensive communication strategy to create awareness among the general public regarding TB diagnosis, care and treatment. Moreover, Provincial TB Control Programme also arranged a seminar to sensitise the target population. Attended by a large number of people, the event laid emphasis on the dissemination of awareness messages to fight against this disease. Besides, several road shows were also planned through a mobile theatre for interpersonal communication in all over Punjab to deliver the TB message and create awareness among the masses. What has been done is good but a lot needs to be done.
It should be kept in mind that in 2014, over 1.5 billion people died of TB, making it a top infectious disease killer worldwide. Therefore, the authorities concerned should be sincere in their efforts and endeavor wholeheartedly for a full-fledged awareness campaign to protect the future generations from this widespread disease.
SYED ALI QASIM
Lahore