The National Capital District has recorded the highest number of TB cases to date.
Classified as the biggest burden and TB hotspot, NCD recorded 540 new sputum cases last year.
While preventive measures are put in place, the public has been advised to visit their nearest health clinics for any suspected cases.
National Capital District has remained the hot spot for TB control in the country.
The 2013 TB Notifications by Province indicates that NCD contributes 20% of all infectious TB cases.
Unhealthy living conditions in the capital city, is a direct result of the increased cases, revealed by health departments, Disease Control & Surveillance Manager, Dr Lucy John.
Over 80 80% of TB reported in 2013, was improperly diagnosed.
For NCD alone, 4290 are suspected TB cases and 870 are positive.
However the figure is far below the World Health Organization’s target rate of 85%.
TB specialist Dr Joseph Bana-Koiri, says TB is not an isolated health issue, but a serious developmental issue with socioeconomic impacts. It’s everyone’s business to ensure TB free country.
The health department has now developed a National TB Strategy, supported by other door and implementing partners. It is focused to reduce TB in PNG.
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