Multi-Drug-Resistant TB Drug Irks Adjumani Locals

Officials from the Ministry of Health in Adjumani district have reported a surge in tuberculosis (TB) cases among both refugee communities and nationals.

According to reports, there have been 77 cases of multi-drug-resistant TB (MDR TB), which occurs when TB bacteria develop resistance to at least isoniazid and rifampin, the two most effective TB drugs.

Dr. Dominic Drametu, the District Health Officer of Adjumani, noted that some of these cases resulted from low-level detection. Out of the 77 cases, 76 were identified through point-of-care tests (POCTs), which enable early detection, immediate treatment, and reduced transmission of TB disease. Currently, 16 patients are undergoing active treatment with a combination of antibacterial medications for a duration of six to 12 months.

Dr. Drametu made these remarks on April 11, 2024, at the Adjumani District Health Offices while addressing district health workers.

He highlighted the low levels of early disease detection, attributing it to excessive reliance on TB Gene Xpert machines, rapid tests capable of simultaneously identifying Mycobacterium tuberculosis and rifampin resistance from sputum.

Emmanuel Ainebyoona, the spokesperson for the Ministry of Health, acknowledged TB’s prevalence nationwide, emphasizing the importance of prevention measures and treatment adherence for those diagnosed.

“A substantial increase in testing is imperative. Individuals should allocate two weeks for TB testing. Early detection is paramount, as is prevention, including avoiding living in congested settlements,” Ainebyoona remarked.

He further urged settlement authorities to implement measures to prevent further spread by de-congesting areas. Given TB’s omnipresence, he stressed the necessity of comprehensive preventative measures and their strict adherence.

The World Health Organization (WHO) conducted a mid-term review of Uganda’s tuberculosis response, highlighting its status as one of the world’s deadliest infectious diseases and a growing challenge in Uganda. Annually, close to 240 individuals fall ill with TB, resulting in approximately 30 fatalities, with over half of TB-related deaths occurring among people living with HIV.