SKIMS Bemina organizes TB screening, awareness camp

Srinagar: SKIMS Medical College and Hospital, Bemina, on Wednesday organised a tuberculosis screening and awareness camp under the Government of India’s “100 Days TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyan,” aimed at strengthening early detection and public awareness.

The camp was set up near the Outpatient Department to ensure wider access for patients and attendants. It was inaugurated by Principal Prof. Fazl Q. Parray in the presence of Medical Superintendent Dr. Shafa A. Deva and Head of Department, Community Medicine, Prof. Ashfaq Bhat. The speakers underlined the need for sustained public participation to achieve the goal of TB elimination.

The initiative was led by the Department of Community Medicine in collaboration with the designated TB Microscopy Centre, with support from the Departments of Pulmonary Medicine, General Medicine and Hospital Administration.

A dedicated team of doctors and paramedical staff carried out systematic screening of individuals presenting with symptoms such as persistent cough, fever, weight loss and night sweats. Suspected cases were identified and referred for further evaluation. Sputum samples were collected following infection control protocols and sent for diagnostic testing, including microscopy and molecular analysis, as per national guidelines.

Alongside screening, awareness sessions were conducted to educate visitors about symptoms, transmission and the importance of timely diagnosis and treatment adherence. IEC material was also distributed to inform people about free diagnostic and treatment facilities available under the national programme.

Officials said a significant number of individuals were screened during the camp. The exercise was described as a focused effort to improve case detection and reinforce awareness, in line with the objectives of the TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyan.

The Department of Community Medicine stated that similar activities will continue in the coming weeks to support the campaign targets within the stipulated timeframe. (via. Meer Iqbal)