Himachal accelerates efforts to eliminate tuberculosis: State TB Cell Hosts Media Engagement Session

The State Tuberculosis (TB) Cell, under the National Health Mission (NHM) – Himachal Pradesh, organized a Media Engagement Session today, with support from The Union Against Tuberculosis. The session, held in Shimla on 19th October 2024, aimed to bolster efforts towards tuberculosis elimination in the state by fostering collaboration between media professionals and health experts. It provided essential resources to media representatives for effective reporting on TB and other health challenges.

The event offered a platform for media to connect with health experts, community workers, ASHAs, and TB Champions, enabling participants to gain valuable insights into TB prevention, control measures, and interventions at both state and national levels.

Ms. Priyanka Verma (IAS), Mission Director of the National Health Mission, Himachal Pradesh, inaugurated the session by lighting the ceremonial lamp, with Dr. Ravinder Kumar, State Program Officer (NTEP), welcoming attendees.

The speakers emphasized the importance of strengthening health systems in Himachal Pradesh to meet the National Tuberculosis Elimination Program (NTEP) goals. Key areas discussed included improving infrastructure, expanding diagnostic access, training healthcare workers, and fostering community engagement to ensure widespread TB awareness and control.

Key Points from the Event:

• Ms. Priyanka Verma (IAS), Mission Director, NHM, stressed the importance of effective communication in the mission to achieve a TB-Free Himachal. She highlighted that as the state continues to make progress, it is crucial to showcase local achievements in TB elimination while aligning with national and global standards. She also underscored the media’s role in driving responsible reporting, spreading awareness, and holding stakeholders accountable through data-driven stories that inspire public trust and engagement.

• Dr. Ravinder Kumar, State Program Officer (NTEP), discussed the vital role of various interventions in TB control across Himachal Pradesh. He emphasized the progress made through key initiatives, such as the involvement of Chemist Associations, SHGs, youth, medical colleges, and social media influencers. Dr. Kumar called on the media to support digital campaigns, helping to dispel myths, reduce stigma, and promote health-seeking behavior, contributing to a TB-free Himachal.

• Mr. L.R. Sharma, IEC Officer, State TB Cell, delivered a special presentation showcasing the information, education, and communication (IEC) materials developed to normalize discussions around TB. These efforts aim to reduce stigma and encourage open conversations about TB prevention and treatment.

The session highlighted the media’s pivotal role as key stakeholders in the TB elimination campaign. Examples from districts like Kangra demonstrated how proactive media partnerships and community involvement have significantly boosted TB elimination efforts. The media’s consistent engagement has helped raise awareness, reduce stigma, and increase public participation in screening and treatment programs.

Himachal Pradesh has introduced several innovative initiatives to combat TB, including the Sunday Active Case Finding (ACF) campaign, which has screened over 23 lakh individuals in 2023, resulting in 219 TB diagnoses. Other initiatives include multisectoral engagement with 27 government departments, chemist engagement for referrals, hospital ward screenings, and social media campaigns that have mobilized influencers and elected representatives. Additionally, the state has launched the “Meri TB Ki Kahaani” initiative, which has empowered over 700 TB Champions to support TB elimination at the grassroots level.

The event also featured insightful discussions with TB Champions, ASHA workers, chemists, and Gram Sabha leaders, who shared their experiences in tackling TB in remote areas. They emphasized the importance of community-driven initiatives, early diagnosis, and treatment adherence in the fight against tuberculosis.

The session provided a collaborative platform for the media to contribute to health awareness and support Himachal Pradesh’s ongoing efforts to eliminate TB.