The Lagos State Government has reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to completely eradicate Tuberculosis (TB) across the metropolis, emphasizing a strategic focus on grassroots intervention and expanded diagnostic capabilities.
A Mandate for Eradication
Speaking during a courtesy visit from the Institute of Human Virology, Nigeria (IHVN) team, the Permanent Secretary of Lagos State Health District III, Dr. Monsurat Adeleke, highlighted that health security remains a top priority for the current administration. She noted that the drive to eliminate the disease is bolstered by the leadership of the State’s First Lady.
“The First Lady of Lagos State, Dr. (Mrs.) Claudiana Sanwo-Olu, is a TB champion,” Dr. Adeleke stated. “We at Health District III are keying into her mandate of ending TB now through the continuous expansion of diagnostic scale-up centers.”
Optimizing Community Outreach and Screening
To ensure no community is left behind, the District III team conducts weekly community-based outreach activities. Dr. Adeleke emphasized that TB screening remains free of charge for all residents, as the government seeks to make health packages more robust and accessible.
The Permanent Secretary pointed out the unique clinical advantages of Health District III, including X-Ray viewing boxes available in all comprehensive facilities, a network of 67 Primary Health Care centers (PHCs), and Medical Doctors stationed at 21 PHCs to provide immediate and expert interpretation of X-rays.
Strengthening Clinical Vigilance
The visiting IHVN team, a U.S. government-supported organization, expressed the need for heightened clinical suspicion at the primary healthcare level. The Head of Delegation and State Team Lead, Dr. Adetokunbo Okungbure, warned against the casual treatment of persistent coughs.
“We don’t want a situation whereby a patient will come to the facility with TB and just say ‘I’m coughing,’ and the clinician only administers cough syrup,” Dr. Okungbure explained. “The patient goes home and continues coughing while also spreading the disease.”
She commended the Lagos State Government for its innovative approach and sought further collaboration on TB optimization, screening, and the integration of ad hoc staff at all PHC facilities.
Commitment to Integration
In response, Dr. Adeleke assured the IHVN team of full support, noting that the District would integrate TB screening with existing services, such as immunization follow-ups, to ensure zero additional costs to the partners or the public.
The meeting concluded with the Institute of Human Virology, Nigeria, honoring Dr. Monsurat Adeleke with an award in recognition of her dedicated service and leadership in the state’s public health sector.
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