Jamaica Hosts Successful Week of Activities for Tuberculosis Awareness

The Ministry of Health and Wellness recently hosted a week of activities and strategic health initiatives, aimed at raising awareness about Tuberculosis (TB) in Jamaica.

Speaking in an interview with JIS News, Programme Development Officer for the HIV/STI/TB Unit, Dr. Haneef Wilson, said the week was dedicated to reinforcing the commitment of the Ministry to ending TB as a public health threat. The week-long activities, which was held between March 22 and 27, included community outreach, health screenings, and other activities aimed at improving TB detection, treatment, and public awareness across the island. Dr. Wilson highlighted the comprehensive nature of Jamaica’s World TB Day commemoration initiatives. “In Jamaica, we’ve turned World TB Day, which is observed globally on March 24, into a week of commemoration and activity. Our goal is not only to remember the challenges of TB but to review our progress, improve awareness, and ensure early detection,” the Programme Development Officer stated. This year, outreach activities were held at the National Council for Senior Citizens and the Horizon Adult Remand Centre, and included health screenings for cholesterol, blood pressure, blood sugar, and body mass index, alongside TB education.

Dr. Wilson pointed out that Jamaica is classified as a “low burden” TB country by the World Health Organization (WHO), based on the country reporting fewer than 10 cases per 100,000 population annually.

“Our ultimate goal aligns with the WHO End TB Strategy, which aims to eliminate TB as a public health threat by 2035,” he stated.

“While we currently report around three cases per 100,000, we are implementing strategies to reach pre-elimination targets, strengthen clinical management, improve laboratory capabilities, and expand public awareness campaigns,” he added.

At the annual review, which was held at the Moon Palace Hotel in Ocho Rios, regional representatives assessed progress, identified gaps in clinical knowledge, documentation, and laboratory systems, and planned operational strategies for the coming year.

Emphasis was placed on preventing outbreaks, particularly in correctional facilities, and promoting early detection to reduce both health and financial impacts on affected families.

“We are committed to reducing new TB cases, ensuring effective treatment completion, and addressing gaps in public awareness. Strengthening protocols, developing new guiding documents, and improving our communication campaigns are all part of our approach to safeguard public health and move Jamaica closer to TB elimination,” Dr. Wilson said.