As part of efforts to raise awareness about Tuberculosis, Newmont Ahafo Mine, in collaboration with the Ghana Health Service and the German International Co-operation (GIZ), has organised a durbar at Wamahinso in the Asutifi District of Brong Ahafo to mark World Tuberculosis Day.
Basic school pupils and community members carried placards through the streets of Wamahinso amid brass band music ahead of the durbar, which was on the theme, “Call for a World Free of TB.”
The Asutifi District Director of Health Services, Richard Kwasi Henneh, addressing the durbar disclosed that Tuberculosis is an infectious and contagious disease, which mainly affects the lungs but could also damage other parts of the body.
He said anyone who develops the disease could easily spread it to others by sneezing, coughing or yawning without covering his/her mouth.
The district director emphasised that Tuberculosis is curable and its treatment is free, adding that the treatment of the disease lasts for six months, and must not be stopped, for any reason.
During the programme, 112 students and residents of Wamahinso benefitted from the free medical screening on HIV/AIDS, blood pressure and sugar level after the durbar at Newmont’s cost.
Newmont and health officials extended the programme to Kenyase Prisons where over one hundred inmates were sensitised on the disease after which they also benefitted from free tuberculosis and HIV tests, and had their weight, blood pressure and sugar levels checked as well.
STORY: FROM MICHAEL SARPONG MFUM, WAMAHINSO B/A.
