More than 53,000 active TB cases have been reported in the Western Cape by August this year, highlighting the continued need for early testing and treatment.
The provincial health department has said that it has expanded TB screening since 2023, including testing people who may not yet show symptoms.
This includes close contacts of TB patients, people living with HIV and those who have previously had the disease.
Children under five exposed to TB are also being prioritised for preventive treatment.
The department is further integrating TB screening into maternal, child health and HIV services, while an electronic tracking system helps healthcare workers follow up with patients who start treatment.
The Democratic Alliance (DA)’s provincial health spokesperson, Memory Booysen, is urging residents not to ignore symptoms or known risk factors, and those diagnosed with TB to complete their treatment.
“Through early diagnosis, prevention, community-based services, and sustained treatment support we can reduce transmission and move closer to ending TB as public health threat,” said Booysen.
Ntuthuzelo Nene
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