Nakuru records 3,182 cases of TB in 2024, men lead the pack

Tuberculosis remains a major public health concern in Nakuru County.

According to Nakuru county TB, Leprosy and Lung Disease Coordinator, Dr.  Neimah Barasa, in 2024 alone, Nakuru County recorded 3,154 cases of drug-susceptible TB and 28 cases of drug-resistant TB, with an alarming rise in patients who are not adhering to their treatment plan.

“The county has been enhancing capacity building among healthcare workers, equipping them with the skills needed for TB diagnosis and treatment. Additionally, community health promoters (CHPs) have been trained to conduct screenings and refer potential cases for further examination,” she says.

Dr. Barasa says that should patients develop drug resistant TB, the County is well equipped to diagnose, treat, and follow up on their cases.

“One of the key initiatives the county is focusing on this year is a Rapid Results Initiative (RRI). This strategy aims to track down patients who started but did not complete their TB treatment, as well as follow up on contacts of TB patients,” she says, noting that they are taking the fight against TB to community level.

Speaking on Nakuru listing on the National ranking on TB, Dr. Barasa noted that Nakuru County was ranked 31st nationally in TB management last year, a decline from the 29th position in the previous year.

According to the doctor, TB infection was prevalent in men followed by children as data presented.

“Men tend to seek medical help late, often opting for self-medication rather than visiting health facilities when symptoms persist. My appeal for men to seek timely medical attention if they experience symptoms such as persistent cough, fever, unexplained weight loss, or night sweats,” she advices

She further explains that in the county, Naivasha has reported some of the highest TB cases in the county, however noting this is partly due to its large population and an influx of patients from neighbouring counties like Nyandarua and Narok.

Dr. Barasa maintains that TB remains a curable disease, and Nakuru County has set its sights on the global goal of eradicating TB by 2030.

“Currently, the county has an 86 per cent treatment success rate, up from 84 per cent from last year, though it still falls short of the target of 94 percent. The county has also recorded a seven per cent death rate among TB patients and a 5.8 percent loss to follow-up rate, where patients discontinue treatment before completion. Additionally, the TB - HIV co-infection rates stand at a concerning 25.8 per cent, highlighting the need for early screening and integrated treatment for both diseases,” she remarks

Dr. Barasa urged patients to adhere to their treatment regimens and consult healthcare providers in case of side effects rather than discontinuing medication.