In a determined effort to curb the impact of tuberculosis (TB) in Orange Farm, intensified screening and testing campaigns will be conducted starting from 12 March.
The initiative aims to address alarming TB statistics in the area and build momentum leading up to World Stop TB Day on 24 March. According to a memorandum from Catherine Mogotsi, Sub-district G TB Coordinator, Orange Farm accounted for a staggering 46.5% of TB deaths in Region G over the past five years. Out of 613 TB-related deaths, 285 were reported at Orange Farm clinics.
Males constituted 60% of these deaths, highlighting the need for targeted interventions.The initiative includes door-to-door sputum collection for early detection and treatment of TB.
Mobile chest X-ray units will be deployed at key locations, including Driezik 3, Ext 1, Ext 2 Taxi Rank, and Ext 7b. Details of these campaigns will be shared via digital pamphlets.
Recognizing the close link between TB and HIV, with 73.2% of TB deaths being HIV-positive, HIV testing will also be offered during the campaigns. This aligns with the national HIV treatment campaign launched by Dr. Aaron Motsoaledi, which seeks to ensure 95% of HIV-positive individuals adhere to antiretroviral therapy (ART) for viral suppression.
Community leaders, Ward Councillors and stakeholders have been urged to encourage residents to participate in the campaign and utilize the available services. Their involvement is seen as crucial to the success of the program and the health of the Orange Farm community. For more information, contact Catherine Mogotsi at catherine.mogotsi@gauteng.gov.za or call 011 213-9663.
Issued by Catherine Mogotsi, Sub-district G TB Coordinator,
