Witkoppen Clinic reports increase in TB cases, urges community to test
Lawrence Mlotshwa stressed that TB is a treatable disease, and with proper care and adherence to treatment, patients can recover and lead healthy lives.
Witkoppen Clinic has reported an increase in tuberculosis (TB) cases in the local community.
In 2024, the clinic conducted an average of 478 tests and 5 250 TB screenings every month.
This year, the numbers have risen, with more patients seeking testing and treatment for the disease.
Lawrence Mlotshwa, head of the chest unit at Witkoppen Clinic, emphasised the importance of taking necessary precautions to prevent the spread of TB.
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“We have seen an increase in the number of reported TB cases at the clinic as we entered the second month of 2025,” he said.
“We urge the local community to come forward for testing if they are experiencing any symptoms of TB. Early detection is key to managing and controlling the spread of the disease.”
TB is a bacterial infection that primarily affects the lungs but can also impact other parts of the body. It’s spread through droplets released when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Symptoms of TB include a persistent cough, fever, night sweats, and unexplained weight loss.
“While TB typically affects the lungs, it can impact almost any organ in the body, making it a potentially serious disease if not treated properly. Treatment for TB requires a long-term commitment, typically lasting at least six months for a non-complicated drug-sensitive lung TB and up to nine months for a complicated TB of other organs other than the lungs. Adhering to the prescribed treatment is critical to effectively cure TB and prevent complications.
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He said TB germs could remain dormant in the body and may not cause illness right away, which was why early screening and testing was important, even if symptoms were not immediately apparent.
“The treatment for TB is designed to ensure that the infection is completely eradicated. The aim of TB medication is to be taken as prescribed for a period of four to nine months, depending on the severity of the case. All close contacts of individuals with active TB must be screened and tested to prevent further spread of the disease.”
Mlotshwa added preventive medication was available for those who have had significant exposure to TB but did not have active TB.
“Adherence with the full course of TB medication is essential for treatment to be successful. Skipping doses or not completing the full treatment regimen can result in the bacteria becoming resistant to medication, making the disease harder to treat. The drug-resistant TB takes longer to treat than drug-sensitive TB.”
To prevent TB, the clinic recommends avoiding close contact with individuals who have active TB disease, washing hands frequently, covering the mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle through a nutritious diet and regular exercise.
Witkoppen Clinic urges anyone experiencing symptoms of TB or who has had close contact with someone diagnosed with TB to get tested as soon as possible. The clinic is located at 105 Winnie Drive, Fourways, and offers testing and treatment services to the local community.
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