March is observed as TB Awareness Month, a time dedicated to educating communities about tuberculosis (TB) and encouraging people to get tested early.

World TB Day is marked annually on March 24 to raise awareness about the disease and highlight efforts to eliminate it.

TB is an infectious disease that usually affects the lungs. It spreads through the air when a person with active TB coughs, sneezes or speaks.

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Health practitioners say regular screening is important, even for people who do not show symptoms. Early testing and treatment can help prevent the disease from spreading in communities.

Common symptoms of TB include:

• Persistent cough lasting more than three weeks
• Chest pain
• Unexplained weight loss
• Night sweats
• Fever
• Coughing up blood
• Constant fatigue

People experiencing these symptoms are encouraged to visit their nearest clinic for testing.

TB is a curable disease, but patients must complete a six-month course of antibiotic treatment. Health workers warn that drinking alcohol, smoking or skipping medication during treatment can reduce the effectiveness of the medication and increase the risk of relapse.

Although TB is treatable, patients undergoing treatment often face physical and emotional challenges and may require strong support from their families.

Health workers also encourage TB patients to attend counselling to help them cope with the stress of the illness and remain committed to completing their treatment.

Tuberculosis survivor Marriam Santa highlighted the need for stronger support systems for people recovering from the disease, saying many patients struggle emotionally and financially even after completing treatment.

“I agree that TB patients need more support, including financial assistance, proper nutrition and counselling. After my treatment, I really needed counselling, but unfortunately, I had to counsel myself because no one truly understands what TB patients go through and how we feel,” said Santa.

Community members are also encouraged to help reduce the spread of TB by covering their mouths when coughing, ensuring good ventilation in homes and workplaces, and seeking medical attention if they develop symptoms.

Residents can visit their local clinics for free TB screening and to learn more about how to protect themselves and their families.