Himachal gears up to eliminate TB as experts focus on media’s crucial role
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MANDI: To strengthen the tuberculosis elimination programme in Himachal Pradesh, the State Tuberculosis (TB) Cell and the state chapter of the National Health Mission (NHM) with the support from the Union Against Tuberculosis organised a media engagement session in Shimla on Saturday (October 19, 2024).
The session aimed to discuss the roadmap to eliminate TB in Himachal Pradesh and equip media professionals with essential resources for impactful reporting on TB and other health challenges.
This event provided an excellent opportunity for media professionals to connect with health experts, community health workers, ASHAs and TB champions. Participants gained valuable insights into TB prevention strategies, control measures and ongoing interventions at the state and national levels.
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The event was graced by Priyanka Verma (IAS), Mission Director, National Health Mission, Himachal Pradesh, who lit the ceremonial lamp. Dr Ravinder Kumar, SPO NTEP, Himachal Pradesh, welcomed the attendees.
Priyanka Verma emphasised on the importance of effective communication for health and the need to engage all stakeholders in the mission towards a TB-free Himachal. She highlighted, “As Himachal Pradesh continues to make strides in TB elimination, it is important that we not only showcase our local progress but also compare our achievements to national and global standards. This broader narrative helps us highlight the innovative approaches taken in the state, such as the multi-sectoral engagement.
Dr Ravinder Kumar, State Programme Officer (NTEP), highlighted the critical role of various interventions in TB control efforts across Himachal Pradesh. He said, “Himachal Pradesh has made great progress in TB elimination, driven by key interventions and the active involvement of chemist associations, SHGs, youth, medical colleges and social media influencers. However, challenges remain in combating myths, reducing stigma and building community support and the 347-district plan, while fostering healthy competition and collaboration between states.
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Additionally, LR Sharma, IEC Officer, State TB Cell, Himachal Pradesh, delivered a special presentation showcasing the IEC materials developed to help normalize conversations around TB.
The session underscored the critical role of media as essential stakeholders in the fight against TB, highlighting how effective media engagement can significantly contribute to TB elimination efforts.
The Himachal government has implemented several innovative initiatives to eliminate tuberculosis in the state. Key efforts include the Sunday Active Case Finding (ACF) campaign, where ASHA workers screen vulnerable populations weekly, resulting in over 23 lakh individuals being screened in 2023, leading to 219 TB diagnoses.
A multisectoral engagement approach involving 27 government departments has intensified community outreach, with 723 panchayats declared TB-free. Other impactful measures include the chemist engagement initiative, which has referred many presumptive cases, and the Indoor Ward Screening across hospitals, identifying thousands of potential TB cases.
The state also launched an extensive social media campaign, engaging influencers and elected representatives to raise awareness and rolled out the 360° campaign for public education, reaching millions.
Additionally, the Meri TB Ki Kahaani initiative has mobilised over 700 TB champions, strengthening grassroots support for TB elimination. These comprehensive efforts position Himachal Pradesh as a leader in TB control, with notable progress in reducing cases and increasing public participation.
