Plateau recorded 5,397 tuberculosis cases in 2025 – Commissioner

n n

Plateau Commissioner for Health, Dr Nicholas Baamlong, has said that only 5,397 tuberculosis cases were officially recorded out of an estimated 11,549 cases in 2025.

n

Baamlong made the disclosure on Monday in Jos while briefing newsmen to commemorate the 2026 World Tuberculosis Day, themed “Yes! We can end TB: led by countries, powered by people.”

n

The commissioner expressed concern that the figure highlights a significant notification gap.

n

He attributed the gap to patients living in very poor communities where access to health facilities is a challenge.

n

According to him, the ministry, in collaboration with its partners, is strengthening diagnostic services by reaching the hinterlands as a means of bridging the gap.

n

Baamlong expressed worry that a TB patient who is not diagnosed and placed on treatment can infect 10 to 15 persons annually.

n

He stated that the diagnosis and treatment of TB are completely free of charge.

n

He pointed out that the state has 640 out of 1,470 public and private health facilities offering free integrated tuberculosis control services.

n

Baamlong urged residents to seek medical attention promptly if they experience a persistent cough or other symptoms associated with TB.

n

“Persons who experience persistent cough for over two weeks, night sweats, and weight loss should avail themselves for testing.

n

“The state government is committed to strengthening TB control programmes and improving healthcare delivery to reduce the burden and to make the state free of the disease.

n

“Let me particularly thank Governor Caleb Mutfwang for prioritising efforts towards ending TB in the state,” he said.

n

The commissioner also thanked the various health implementing partners for their contributions in making Plateau TB-free.

n

(NAN)

n n