India launches 100-Day intensified campaign to eliminate Tuberculosis in prisons, ET HealthWorld
New Delhi: The Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has instructed states and Union Territories (UTs) to implement a 100-day campaign to address tuberculosis (TB) in prisons and correctional institutions.
The campaign focuses on reducing the risk of TB transmission in prisons, which are particularly vulnerable due to overcrowding and confined environments. These conditions increase the likelihood of disease spread, impacting both incarcerated individuals and the broader community through interactions with visitors and prisoner releases.
As part of the campaign, which began on December 7, 2024, several measures have been outlined to improve TB control in prison. Screening camps, known as Nikshay Shivir, will be held in all prisons from February 3 to February 15, 2025, in coordination with State Health Departments and District TB Officers.
Additionally, a pledge-taking activity called “Ni-kshay Shapath”, will be conducted between January 27 and February 2, 2025, to promote awareness about the disease. Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) materials will be displayed in prison facilities to provide information about TB prevention and treatment, and efforts will be made to educate prison staff about TB and its management.
The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has provided guidelines and resources for states and UTs to carry out the campaign. Prison authorities are expected to actively participate by organizing screenings and raising awareness among inmates and staff. These measures aim to address the challenges of controlling TB in prisons and reduce the associated public health risks.
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