Over 120 children diagnosed with TB in Siha

KILIMANJARO: A HEALTH screening campaign in Siha District, Kilimanjaro Region, has identified 127 children infected with Tuberculosis (TB), out of a total of 752 diagnosed cases.

This was revealed by the District TB and Leprosy Coordinator, Dr Michael Mushi, during the commemoration of World TB Day held in Kilimajaro region at Kibong’oto Infectious Diseases Hospital (KIDH) on Tuesday.

Dr Mushi said the figure represents 17 per cent of all detected cases, which is higher than the global average of childhood TB cases, estimated at about 10 per cent.

“This situation is a significant challenge that requires urgent attention,” he said.

He attributed the increase in detected cases to improved access to health services, noting that the district currently has 33 health facilities offering TB screening and treatment services.

“The expansion of health services has enabled more people to undergo medical check-ups, leading to increased detection of TB cases,” he explained.

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Dr Mushi noted that in the past, limited health infrastructure contributed to many TB cases, especially among children, going undetected.

He noted that ongoing initiatives, including routine screening of children attending health facilities, have played a key role in early diagnosis and treatment. Commenting on the high number of infections among children, Dr Mushi explained that TB is a contagious disease often transmitted from adults to children within households and communities.

“Childhood TB is usually acquired from infectious adults and most cases are paucibacillary and smearnegative,” he said.

Speaking on behalf of the Director of KIDH, Dr Leonard Subi, the hospital’s Community Welfare Officer, Mr Wazoeli Mshana, said the facility receives and treats over 100 TB patients annually, many of whom arrive in critical condition.

“This indicates the need for continued public education to encourage early health check-ups,” he said. Mr Mshana emphasised that regular screening helps in early detection and improves chances of full recovery. Meanwhile, speaking on behalf of fellow patients, Ms Mariam Athuman commended the government for subsidising TB treatment, making it accessible to many despite its high cost.