TB crisis in nasarawa: 21% of patients also have HIV as death toll rises

The Nasarawa State Government has revealed alarming tuberculosis (TB) statistics for 2024, with 8,190 cases recorded statewide.

Out of these cases, 21% were also diagnosed with Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), raising serious health concerns.

The state Commissioner for Health, Dr. Gaza Gwamna, shared this data during the World Tuberculosis Day commemoration in Lafia.

He confirmed that 35 TB patients lost their lives in 2024 due to severe complications arising from the disease.

The 2024 figures showed an increase compared to 2023, which recorded 7,275 cases and 18% TB-HIV co-infection.

Gwamna emphasized the need for intensified efforts to combat TB and reduce mortality rates in the state.

“Out of the 8,190 infected persons, 35 died, showing TB remains a serious health issue,” he stated.

He highlighted that the TB treatment success rate in Nasarawa for the fourth quarter of 2024 stood at 89%.

This success rate is still below the 95% target set by the National Tuberculosis Control Programme.

“A lot more work is needed to meet national TB control targets,” Gwamna stressed.

Gwamna disclosed that 627 children between ages 0–14 were diagnosed with TB in 2024.

This group constituted 8.5% of total TB cases, falling short of the national 12% target for pediatric TB cases.

He warned that TB has severe economic implications, particularly affecting the most productive age group.

Statistics indicate that people aged 15–55 years are the most affected by tuberculosis nationwide.

“This age group is crucial to economic growth, and TB affects their productivity,” the commissioner noted.

Drug-Resistant Tuberculosis (DR-TB) is also increasing, posing an additional challenge to health authorities.

Some local governments reported significant TB cases, with Nasarawa LGA leading with 1,846 infections.

Other affected areas include Nasarawa Eggon (682), Obi (350), Awe (179), Wamba (178), and Toto (143).

“These figures show the urgent need for enhanced TB awareness and early detection,” Gwamna added.

He urged residents to seek medical attention if experiencing prolonged cough, fever, weight loss, or chest pain.

“Symptoms such as night sweats and persistent cough should not be ignored,” he cautioned.

Gwamna reiterated the government’s commitment to tackling TB through improved healthcare services and public awareness.

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