Mrs. Kehinde Ajala, wife of the Executive Chairman of Odi-Olowo Ojuwoye LCDA, flagged off tuberculosis (TB) awareness campaign in the local council, yesterday 23rd of December. The initiative is aimed at promoting community health and wellbeing, particularly in the fight against TB.

According to Mrs. Ajala, the motivation behind the campaign is teamwork and the desire to build a healthier community. She credited the wife of the Governor of Lagos State, Dr. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, for inspiring the initiative. Mrs. Ajala explained that they were decorated at the state level and tasked with cascading the campaign down to the local government level.

The campaign emphasizes the importance of community health, welfare, and overall wellbeing. Mrs. Ajala stressed that if someone is coughing and others look the other way, the whole community can get infected. She urged residents to maintain clean hygiene at all times and to encourage anyone coughing to seek medical attention at the nearest government hospital.

Mrs. Olasumbo James, Supervisor for Tuberculosis and Leprosy in Mushin, has emphasized the importance of recognizing the signs and symptoms of tuberculosis (TB). According to James, there are five cardinal signs that indicate the presence of TB: coughing for two or more weeks, fever, shivering, night sweats, fatigue, and weight loss.

James explained that if a person exhibits these symptoms, they should undergo a check-up, which may include a free x-ray and sputum collection. The results are then interpreted by radiologists and clinicians, who will determine the best course of treatment.

James outlined the treatment process, which typically involves a six-month regimen of drugs. However, she noted that some patients may have multidrug-resistant TB (MDR-TB), which requires specialized treatment.

In such cases, patients are directed to the Mainland Hospital, where further tests are conducted, and treatment is administered. James emphasized the importance of counseling patients on their treatment options, potential side effects, and the need for adherence to their medication regimen.

The expert’s explanation comes as part of efforts to raise awareness about TB and promote early detection and treatment. With World TB Day observed annually on March 24, health officials are working to educate the public about the signs, symptoms, and treatment options for this infectious disease.

Mrs. Fumilayo, one of the beneficiaries, praised the wife of the Chairman and Governor Sanwo-Olu for providing the opportunity for free TB screening. She advised others to prioritize their health by regularly checking for any potential issues.

Another beneficiary, Mrs. Abosede Oladele said ” I am thankful for this initiative. I was able to consult with doctors and receive the necessary attention. I encourage everyone to take advantage of this program and prioritize their health.”