The AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF) Nigeria, on Saturday, carried out tuberculosis testing and counseling for no fewer than 200 persons in Akwa Ibom.
The exercise which took place at Nnung Udoe, Ibesikpo Asutan Local Government Area, was used to raise awareness against tuberculosis in the state.
AHF Senior Advocacy and Marketing Manager, Mr. Steve Aborisade, said that there was need for members of the public to be sensitised to TB signs and symptoms.
Aborisade said that the exercise was AHF’s commitment to empowering communities to take charge and drive the process of their healthcare and wellness.
He said that through the Power Voices, an AHF Africa community advocacy club, communities could take ownership of advocacy on health issues affecting them.
The AHF official further said that the Power Voices were made up of individuals who were passionate about their communities.
“They are individuals that are committed to work for the good of the community, and to advance their health interests. They do this through awareness creation, education and advocacy.
“This is important because community ownership is critical to health project implementation and acceptance,” he said.
Aborisade stated that AHF would continue to support communities to actively collaborate with other stakeholders to tackle health challenges.
Miss Jessica Umoh, the Akwa Ibom Linkage Coordinator, said that the exercise was to educate the community about the signs, symptoms and treatment for tuberculosis.
Umoh said that it was important to inform the public that tuberculosis was curable, and not a death sentence.
“We are here in collaboration with KNCV Nigeria, we are collecting the sputum samples and analysing for the patients. The testing is free.
“Anyone found to be tuberculosis positive will be given free treatment. We must not also forget that TB treatment is free in public health facilities,” he said.
She warned TB patients against the use of herbal concoction for treatment of the disease.
Some of members of the community who were tested and counselled, commended AHF Nigeria for the exercise, and described it as a good omen.
