In a positive development, Pilathabettu and Manila gram panchayats in Bantwal taluk of Dakshina Kannada district have been declared ‘TB Mukt Panchayats’, signaling a significant reduction in tuberculosis cases. The district has witnessed a decline in reported TB cases, dropping from 3,256 in 2018 to 2,975 in 2023, with 594 cases reported until mid-March this year.
To enhance the diagnosis of multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR TB), the health department has established a CBNAAT facility at Wenlock District Hospital in Mangaluru and Government Hospital in Puttur, eliminating the need for delayed results from labs in Bengaluru or Hubballi. Additionally, TrueNat tests are conducted at the community health center in Moodbidri and the urban health center in Bantwal, according to district TB control officer Dr. Badruddin.
Dr. Badruddin explained that the ‘TB Mukt Panchayat’ initiative, launched by the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare in 2023, sets criteria including the collection of at least 30 samples per population of 1,000 and a maximum of one TB patient per population of 1,000 for a gram panchayat to qualify. Two gram panchayats in Dakshina Kannada have met these criteria and have been declared ‘TB Mukt’ villages.
Under the National TB Control Programme, all patients receive free treatment (DOTS – Directly Observed Treatment Short-course) for six months along with Rs 500 per month under the Nikshay Nutrition scheme. MDR TB patients are discharged from hospitals after pre-treatment evaluation and are provided follow-up treatment through the nearest health center by medical officers.
Dr. Badruddin emphasized the government’s regular supply of required medicines to the district and highlighted the importance of cooperation from private hospitals, medical colleges, and NGOs in preventing the spread of TB. The district has shown a downward trend in TB cases over the years, reflecting concerted efforts in TB control and management.
