SKIMS Medical College Holds TB Awareness Training for ASHA Workers at PHC Soibug

Soibug: SKIMS Medical College conducted a tuberculosis (TB) awareness and sensitization session at Primary Health Centre (PHC) Soibug on Friday under the ongoing “100-Day TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyan.” The initiative aimed to enhance the capacity of frontline health workers in TB prevention, early detection, and patient support.

The session was led by faculty from the Department of Community Medicine, including Dr. Yasmeen Jan and Dr. Beenish Mushtaq (Associate Professors), Dr. Qudsia Zeerak (Senior Resident), along with interns Dr. Khushboo and Dr. Sanjida. Around 20 Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHAs) from Block Soibug participated in the programme.

Training focused on the causes of TB, its infectious nature, and risk factors such as malnutrition, overcrowding, poor ventilation, immunocompromised conditions, and co-morbidities like diabetes. Participants were instructed on identifying key TB symptoms including persistent cough, fever, weight loss, and night sweats, enabling timely referral and diagnosis.

The session emphasized preventive measures, including cough etiquette, respiratory hygiene, early screening, contact tracing, and reducing stigma associated with TB. Proper nutrition and adherence to treatment were highlighted as critical components. ASHA workers were also briefed on treatment protocols under the National TB Elimination Programme (NTEP), including their role in ensuring patient follow-up and supporting Directly Observed Treatment (DOTS), as well as addressing drug-resistant TB.

The programme encouraged active participation, with ASHAs sharing field experiences and engaging in discussions. Officials noted that such initiatives strengthen frontline health efforts and contribute significantly to the objectives of the “TB Mukt Bharat” campaign.