ANTIQUE – Contact tracing among family members of tuberculosis (TB) patients is crucial in preventing the spread of the contagious bacterial infection.
There are currently 37 confirmed to drug-resistant (DR) TB cases in this province. They live with their families but receive free treatment at rural health units (RHUs).
Pulmonologist Dr. Helarose Elisterio, former president of the Philippine College of Chest Physicians-Northwest Panay Chapter and member of the Antique Medical Society, emphasized that TB, caused by the Mycobacterium tuberculosis bacteria, spreads easily when infected individuals cough, sneeze or spit.
“Through contact tracing, close contacts of TB patients or individuals in high-risk groups can be tested for infection and provided with preventive treatment,” Elisterio explained during a press conference on Friday, March 21.
She stressed the importance of early detection and treatment, noting that TB is treatable and medications are available for free at RHUs or Department of Health-designated treatment hubs.
The common symptoms of TB are coughing out blood, chest pain, fever or chills, persistent coughing, and unexplained weight loss.
She said TB can be treated with antibiotics over a period of four to six months, and it is vital for patients to complete the treatment.
Incomplete or improper treatment could lead DR-TB, which is more difficult to cure and can be fatal.
“TB remains one of the top 10 causes of morbidity across all age groups in Antique,” Elisterio noted.
According to the 2024 report from the Antique Integrated Provincial Health Office, the province recorded 2,045 TB cases, with 351 cases in the capital town of San Jose de Buenavista alone.
The town also achieved a 343.95 percent treatment completion rate, which Elisterio described as notably high.
As part of the World TB Day celebration this Monday, March 24, Elisterio called on the public to prioritize early detection and treatment, not only for their own health but also for the well-being of their families.
“Let us support the fight against TB and help end this disease by 2030,” she urged. (PNA)
