Let's build a TB-free society: Dr Raghu - Special awareness program held at Veldurthi on TB elimination
Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Raghu emphasized the need to eradicate TB through collective efforts, just as India had successfully eradicated polio. He stated that a comprehensive awareness drive under the TB Mukt Abhiyan is being conducted to dispel misconceptions about the disease and to sensitize the public about early diagnosis and treatment.
Under the theme 'Yes, We Can End TB,' the Government of India has launched an intensified 100-day campaign focused on Tracing, Testing, and Treatment. The aim is to make India TB-free by identifying and treating all TB cases, especially the "missing" or undiagnosed cases.
Dr. Raghu pointed out that people with poor nutrition, HIV infection, diabetes, substance abuse (alcohol and tobacco), chronic illnesses, or those living in unhygienic conditions—such as slum dwellers, beggars, and migrant populations—are more vulnerable to TB due to weakened immunity.
He stressed the importance of early detection and timely treatment, noting that prolonged cough (more than two weeks), evening fevers, night sweats, difficulty in breathing, chest pain, fatigue, and general weakness are key symptoms of TB. He urged ASHA workers to identify such individuals as presumptive TB patients and refer them for diagnostic tests such as sputum examination and chest X-ray at nearby health centers.
As part of the 100-day action plan, frontline health workers and ASHA activists will conduct extensive outreach programs to raise awareness about TB prevention and control in the community.
The program was attended by Dr. Bhuvana Teja, Health Supervisors Mohan, Community Health Officers Haseena and Mounika, TB Supervisor Mahesh, health staff, ASHA workers, and projectionist Khaleel.
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In response, Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said, 'Border trade between India and China through Lipulekh pass commenced in 1954 and has been going on for decades… such claims are neither justified nor based on… evidence.' Nepal previously raised the claims in 2020, and then Prime Minister K P Sharma Oli passed a map in Parliament, showing the area as part of Nepal. The Indian Express then reported on the historical importance of this region and the territorial claims. What follows is a re-edited version of that story. The 2020 incident Former Army Chief General M M Naravane said on May 15, 2020, that Nepal's protest against a newly built Indian road in Uttarakhand, up to Lipu Lekh pass on the China border, was at 'someone else's behest'. 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Oral hairy leukoplakia (OHL): Caused by the Epstein-Barr virus, OHL produces white, fuzzy patches on the sides of the tongue. These patches may be painless but can sometimes affect taste or cause sensitivity. While not dangerous on its own, OHL is usually a sign of advanced immune suppression and is more common in untreated HIV. Antiviral drugs or topical treatments may help, but the underlying viral infection cannot be cured. Oral herpes: The herpes simplex virus can flare up more often in people with HIV. Painful blisters or clusters of sores appear on the tongue, lips, or roof of the mouth. These sores are contagious and may spread through kissing or sharing utensils. There is no cure for herpes, but antiviral medicines can shorten outbreaks and reduce recurrence. Oral warts: Caused by human papillomavirus (HPV), oral warts may appear as small, raised bumps or flat, cauliflower-like growths on the tongue or inside the mouth. They are usually painless but can be persistent. 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Not all mouth sores are serious, but in the context of HIV, they should never be ignored. If you notice persistent ulcers, white patches, warts, or unexplained discoloration, schedule a medical or dental evaluation. Oral changes may indicate that your immune system is weakening or that your treatment needs adjusting. Other signs that HIV may be progressing include fatigue, fever, swollen lymph nodes, night sweats, and unexplained rashes. Addressing oral health early can prevent more serious complications such as bacterial infections or sepsis, which can be life-threatening with a weakened immune system. Oral health plays a vital role in HIV management. From canker sores and thrush to herpes and warts, many oral conditions arise because of a weakened immune system. By practicing good hygiene, keeping up with antiretroviral treatment, and seeking timely care for new symptoms, people with HIV can reduce the risk of oral complications and protect their overall health. 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