Nigeria: On the rising scourge of tuberculosis

The recent revelation by the National Tuberculosis and Leprosy Control Programme (NTBLCP) that 600,000 new cases of tuberculosis (TB) currently rage in Nigeria should put all citizens on the alert. It is a very deadly disease and not many people are aware of the potential danger they face daily from the disease given its highly infectious nature. This should change with all citizens imbibing the culture of better hygiene and prevention. What is worrisome is the fact that rather than declining as observed elsewhere, the disease seems to be gaining ground in Nigeria. This raises question as to the efficacy of the control measures being applied and calls for more dedication and commitment.