Bauchi State has recorded a sharp increase in tuberculosis (TB) cases, with 13,908 detections in 2024, raising concerns among health authorities. The state government has attributed this surge to increased testing efforts and economic hardship.

Speaking at a press briefing to mark World Tuberculosis Day in Bauchi, the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Sani Mohammed Dambam, revealed that out of the total cases, 12,092 have been registered for drug-susceptible treatment. This marks a significant rise from the 9,332 cases recorded in 2023.

Represented by the Director of Medical Services, Dr. Sulaiman Ningi, Dambam highlighted that the state has already met 65% of its TB case notification target of 18,696 for 2024. He also noted that of the 9,069 new TB cases detected and registered, 3,989 were successfully treated, achieving a 99.1% Treatment Success Rate (TSR).

The state has continued to expand its TB response infrastructure, boasting 800 free TB treatment centres, 131 AFB centres, and advanced diagnostic machines, including 18 GeneXpert, 12 Truenat, and nine TB-LAMP machines. Each of the 20 local government areas now has at least one molecular diagnostic machine, ensuring improved case detection and treatment.

Meanwhile, the Executive Chairman of the Bauchi State Agency for the Control of Tuberculosis and Malaria (BACATMA), Dr. Adamu Sambo, linked the rise in cases to economic challenges and enhanced testing efforts. He emphasized the need for sustained collaboration with health partners to curb the spread of TB in the state.

Health experts and civil society organizations are urging community engagement, increased funding, and awareness campaigns to further strengthen the fight against tuberculosis in Bauchi State.