West Pokot residents have been urged to visit health facilities within the county for free tuberculosis (TB) screening and treatment services to control the spread of the highly infectious disease.
The West Pokot County Director of Health Services, Dr. Jacob Ruto, said the health facilities are offering free mass TB screening for five days to residents of West Pokot County as the world celebrates TB Day.
He said the county is offering mass TB screening as part of a broader strategy to combat the disease, which includes supporting treatment programmes besides the ongoing preventive campaigns.
Dr. Ruto stated that persistent cough, chest pain, coughing up blood or sputum, fatigue, weight loss, loss of appetite, fever, chills, and night sweats are key indicators of TB, urging those experiencing the signs to seek medical care to avoid further complications.
‘‘It is important for people to get tested and help raise awareness about the disease,’’ he stressed.
About the success rate for treating tuberculosis (TB) inpatients who have been diagnosed with the disease, he said there is an 81% success rate, which indicates that a majority of people receiving treatment for TB are seeing positive outcomes.
He highlighted that 11% of the patients diagnosed with TB in the county are not adhering to their prescribed medication, emphasising that non-compliance is a concerning issue because it can lead to the development of drug resistance, which is much harder to treat.
Dr. Ruto encourages patients to complete their treatment as prescribed, noting that it is important in managing and ultimately controlling the spread of TB.
He said there is a need to break the stigma surrounding TB and ensure that more people are aware of the importance of early detection and treatment.
The Director stated that TB is a treatable and curable disease and that those infected should not panic about their health status but reassured them that TB can be serious but is not something to panic about, noting that early detection and treatment are key to managing and curing it.
‘’Anyone diagnosed with TB should be confident that with proper medication, they will recover fully,’’ he said.
Dr Ruto provided details that in West Pokot County, 61 health facilities are equipped to treat TB cases, while 28 facilities are designated for TB testing services.
‘’If a person suspects that they have TB, they can visit any health facility, where a sample will be taken and sent to a facility capable of testing TB. The patient will then receive the results of their test,’’ he said.
He highlighted that the national government is taking steps to address the TB crisis by focusing on both treatment and prevention measures.
The medical director said in the county the national government intends to donate two digital X-ray machines equipped with AI technology to Chebareria and Sigor Sub County hospitals to enhance diagnostic capabilities.
“The government aims to improve the accuracy and speed of TB diagnosis. Digital X-ray AI technology can interpret chest X-rays, helping medical professionals identify TB at an early stage,’’ he said.
‘’The advanced machines which the national government intends to donate are expected to make a significant impact on TB detection, especially in remote or underserved areas.’’ Dr. Ruto said.
He disclosed that TB is affecting the vulnerable population in the county, shedding light on the alarming statistics that a large portion of those infected are children and the fact that many individuals with TB also suffer from malnutrition.
‘‘It is crucial that the public is made aware of the connection between malnutrition and TB, as malnutrition can weaken the immune system, making individuals more susceptible to infections like TB. Addressing nutrition alongside TB treatment could be an important aspect of tackling the ancient disease,” Dr. Ruto noted.
He said efforts and collaboration are in place to combat TB in the county, and the government and USAID Tamatisha, a partner organisation, and other key allies are supporting the health department.
Dr. Ruto said the Department of Health is working on multiple fronts to reduce the spread of TB while focusing on preventative measures for health workers who are at higher risk due to close contact with patients, with a goal to reduce the chances of them contracting the disease while serving medication to patients.
He encourages the community to be proactive in preventing the spread of tuberculosis by promoting early diagnosis, seeking treatment, and ensuring proper ventilation in homes.
He urged the members of the community that if they suspect or learn that anyone is suffering from TB, they should support and encourage the person to seek medical attention promptly.
He urged members of the community to come out for free TB tests as the county commemorates World TB Day.
He said testing will be available at all sub-county hospitals across the county, where they are administering mass screening free of charge.
He stated that the screening programme started on Monday, March 24, and continues until March 28, 2025. However, he emphasised that TB testing and screening is an ongoing service provided daily at the health facilities.
TB Sub County Coordinator for West Pokot Sub County, Veronica Piro, urged the community not to be afraid of being screened for TB infection, emphasising that it is crucial for their well-being.
By Anthony Melly
