In a recent statement, Manila 2nd District Representative Rolando Valeriano expressed his concerns about the rising tuberculosis (TB) cases in Tondo and other densely populated parts of Manila. He called upon Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa to take immediate action to manage the situation, especially in the wake of recent disasters that have exacerbated the spread of the disease. Valeriano, who leads the House Committee on Metro Manila Development, emphasized the urgency of the Department of Health’s (DOH) response to prevent further escalation of TB cases. He highlighted the effectiveness of the DOH’s TB Directly Observed Treatment, Short-Course (TB DOTS) program in controlling the disease and stressed the need for its swift implementation. The lawmaker linked the increase in TB cases to the displacement caused by fires and floods, which forced many residents into crowded evacuation centers, facilitating the spread of TB. Valeriano also called for the DOH to ensure the availability of TB treatments and for the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) to coordinate relief efforts effectively. He expressed confidence in the DOH and DSWD’s ability to address the issue promptly. Earlier, concerns were raised by House Deputy Majority Leader Janette Garin about the increasing TB cases in Manila, with 1,280 individuals diagnosed. Health Secretary Herbosa had previously mentioned logistical challenges, including a shortage of anti-TB medicines due to distribution issues. The World Health Organization’s Global Tuberculosis Report 2024 noted that TB was 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 Surge in Crowded Areas
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