Representative Rolando Valeriano of Manila’s 2nd District has issued a plea to Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa to manage the tuberculosis (TB) situation in Tondo and other densely populated parts of Manila. This call to action comes in the wake of fears that recent natural disasters could exacerbate the spread of the disease. As the head of the House Committee on Metro Manila Development, Valeriano emphasized the urgency for the Department of Health (DOH) and other governmental bodies to act quickly to curb any potential increase in TB cases. He expressed confidence in the DOH’s TB Directly Observed Treatment, Short-Course (TB DOTS) program to effectively manage any sudden outbreaks. Valeriano linked the recent surge in TB cases to the displacement caused by fires and floods, which have forced many residents into overcrowded evacuation centers, facilitating the spread of the disease. He stressed that TB is treatable and underscored the critical role of the TB DOTS program in combating the illness. Additionally, Valeriano called on the DOH to ensure the availability of TB treatments and requested the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) to assist in coordinating relief efforts. He expressed trust in both the DOH and DSWD to respond promptly and effectively. Earlier, concerns about increasing TB cases were raised by House Deputy Majority Leader Janette Garin, following reports of 1,280 new diagnoses in Manila. Health Secretary Herbosa had previously mentioned logistical challenges, including a shortage of anti-TB drugs due to distribution problems. The World Health Organization’s 2024 Global Tuberculosis Report highlighted TB as the leading infectious disease killer globally in 2023, with the Philippines ranking among the top eight countries with the highest TB burden.
Manila Lawmaker Urges Health Department to Control TB Outbreak in Crowded Areas
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