WINDHOEK, March 28 (Xinhua) -- Namibia is burdened by significantly high cases of tuberculosis (TB), further perpetuated by misdiagnosis, said Bernhard Haufiku, Minister of Health and Social Services on Wednesday.
Haufiku made the remarks during the observation of World TB Day held in Windhoek.
According to Haufiku, TB continues to be a health hazard in the country despite reduction in TB cases since 2010.
"Health professionals miss the symptoms due to some of the procedures and methods of diagnosis. For instance, one may send a patient for an x-ray, look on the screen and declare them TB free, while TB may be affecting other organs of the body. The perception that coughing is the only symptom of TB is also holding back detection and access to appropriate treatment," he said.
For early treatment and improved health care, Haufiku called on health professionals to apply a hands-on approach in the diagnosis of TB at all times.
Meanwhile, to further address the gaps, the World Health Organization at the occasion called on all stakeholders to strengthen relations and adopt an integrated multi-sectoral approach to build resilience.
Mary Brantuo, child and adolescent health officer at World Health Organization, said that extensive public education is required and leaders across various sectors should be actively engaged in efforts to end TB.
"The World Health Organization calls on all health workers, non-governmental organizations and technicians to maximize on proven methods to diagnose and treat all types of tuberculosis. We also urge researchers to conduct scientific studies to inform policies and in monitoring tuberculosis services," she said.
On March 28, Namibia observed the World TB Day, commemorated annually worldwide on March 24 under the theme 'Wanted Leaders for a TB-free World'.