Sign In
Learn bits
Science & Tech.
Mahesh

24/03/24 14:15 PM IST

World Tuberculosis Day 2024

In News
  • World Tuberculosis Day, observed annually on March 24th, is a pivotal moment for raising awareness about tuberculosis (TB) – a global health concern that affects millions worldwide.
About TB
  • Tuberculosis is caused by a bacteria called Mycobacterium tuberculosis.
  • It primarily spreads through the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks, releasing infectious droplets.
  • Close and prolonged contact with an infected individual increases the risk of transmission.
  • Through awareness campaigns, educational initiatives, and healthcare interventions, the day aims to emphasize the importance of early detection, access to quality care, and research for innovative solutions.
  • With millions affected worldwide, World Tuberculosis Day underscores the need for continued collaboration among governments, healthcare professionals, researchers, and communities to eradicate TB and ensure a healthier future for all.
Theme
  • "Yes! We Can End TB." The theme carries a message of hope.
  • It emphasizes the possibility of getting back on track in the fight against the TB epidemic.
  • This requires strong leadership, increased investment in TB control efforts, and the swift adoption of new recommendations from the World Health Organization (WHO).
History
  • World TB Day commemorates the date in 1882 when Dr. Robert Koch announced his groundbreaking discovery of Mycobacterium tuberculosis, the bacteria responsible for tuberculosis (TB).
  • Back then, TB ravaged Europe and the Americas, claiming countless lives. Dr. Koch's discovery paved the way for diagnosis, treatment, and ultimately, the fight to end TB.
Significance
  • World Tuberculosis Day holds immense significance in the global health community.
  • It provides an opportunity to highlight the progress made in TB prevention, diagnosis, and treatment while also acknowledging the challenges that persist.
  • TB remains one of the top infectious killers worldwide, with millions of people falling ill and losing their lives to the disease each year.
  • By raising awareness and mobilizing support, World Tuberculosis Day aims to accelerate efforts towards ending TB as a public health threat.
Source- The Hindu

More Related Current Affairs View All

10 Jan

Rural landowners in Delhi want repeal of Sections 33 and 81 of Delhi Land Reforms Act

'Both sections dealing with the use and sale of agricultural land have come under the spotlight ahead of the Delhi Assembly elections.' This can only be done by the Central gove

Read More

10 Jan

Pravasi Bharatiya Diwas

'Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the 18th edition of the Pravasi Bharatiya Diwas  in Bhubaneswar.' The event is held once every two years to “honour the cont

Read More

10 Jan

Deciphering the Indus script

'Recently, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin announced a $1-million prize for experts or organisations in the event of their success in deciphering the scripts of the Indus Val

Read More

India’s First Ai-Driven Magazine Generator

Generate Your Custom Current Affairs Magazine using our AI in just 3 steps