It’s World Tuberculosis Day today.
The airborne disease ranks as the second leading infectious killer globally, following COVID-19.
TB remains a critical global public health threat and is one of the leading causes of death in South Africa.
Today, government is expected to launch its National Strategic Plan for HIV, TB and sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
TB is the leading cause of death among people living with HIV.
Globally, 66 million people were successfully diagnosed and placed on TB treatment between 2000 and 2020.
This year’s global commemoration aims to elevate the need to strengthen collective efforts worldwide to end the suffering and deaths due to TB.
This is a way to build momentum towards the September 2023 United Nations High-Level Meeting on TB.
The global theme declared by the WHO, is Yes! We Can End TB.
South Africa’s national event will take place at the Tlhabane Stadium in Rustenburg, North West.
National Aids Council CEO, Dr Thembisile Xulu, unpacks the country’s battle against TB:
