The Department of Health (DoH) is set to introduce a shorter treatment regimen for tuberculosis (TB), according to Secretary Ted Herbosa.
During a news briefing on Monday, Herbosa announced that the existing 6-month TB treatment plan would be reduced to 4 months, while the drug-resistant treatment plan, which currently spans 9 months, would be shortened to 6 months.
In addition, Dr. Kezia Lorraine Rosario will oversee the tuberculosis programs within the health agency, ensuring their efficient implementation.
Dr. Rosario highlighted the role of stigma in discouraging people from seeking TB testing and treatment.
As a result, the DoH will prioritize testing and identification of new TB cases within local communities.
These initiatives aim to enhance TB control and provide more accessible and effective treatment options, ultimately reducing the burden of the disease. (ai/mnm)
