City of Joburg celebrates World TB day in Snake Park
More than half of which are people living with HIV. It is also the more infectious killer worldwide, claiming over 1, 5 million per year.
The City of Joburg hosted an event in commemoration of World TB Day on March 28 at Siphumelile Clinic in Snake Park.
The event was set to raise awareness about the devastating health, social and economic impact of Tuberculosis (TB) and urge for acceleration of efforts to end the global TB epidemic.
Despite considerable progress over the last decades, TB continues to be the leading cause of death in South Africa, claiming 56 000 people per year.
More than half of which are people living with HIV. It is also the more infectious killer worldwide, claiming over 1, 5 million per year.
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“The most important thing is to let our communities know that TB is curable, hence the event. We do have treatments in our local clinics, so anyone with any symptoms we encourage them to go to their local clinic to seek for help,” said Thembile Tshabalala, a regency health promoter.
The event also hosted important stakeholders like Old Mutual, the Department of Health and others to assist in raising awareness.
“We are always guided by the health calendar and every year in March, we partner and celebrate to raise awareness about TB.
“We organise community members and local clinics to educate them about TB, how one can get it and how to treat it,” said Tshepiso Sekhobo, a City of Joburg Health Promoter.
Westview Clinic was also part of the event taking part in advising people about treatment and the dangers of using drugs and alcohol.
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“Our clinic specialises on people who are addicted to drugs and alcohol. So, for us as Westview Clinic, this is how we get involved in today’s event.
“We encourage and give advices to people who have TB that they should not use drugs and drink alcohol while taking treatment as it slows the healing process,” said Noxolo Zwane, a Moja Coach from Westview Clinic.
The City of Joburg hopes and looks forward to hosting another successful event to continue to encourage residents to take care of themselves and seek help to treat TB.
