Neelam Rahim | neelam@radioislam.co.za

3-minute read
17 March 2024 | 18:13 CAT

Researchers have found that the HIV virus increases the potency of the tuberculosis bacterium (Mtb) by affecting a central function of the immune system. Image/IndiaTV

In South Africa, some 59% of those diagnosed with TB are also HIV positive. Most deaths among people living with HIV can be attributed to TB. To address this, South Africa’s Department of Health has put tremendous effort into integrating HIV and TB services in facilities to ensure that patients can be tested and started on treatment or preventative therapy as quickly as possible.

Lucy Connell, TB Programme Lead at health non-profit Right to Care, highlighted the challenges between the separation of HIV and TB management within facilities.

“People living with HIV are at increased risk of developing TB disease because their immune system is weaker. TB treatment is the best way to make families, colleagues and communities safer,” she says.

Connell pointed out that South Africa has come a long way in ensuring diagnosed cases are attended to quickly.

“More health workers understand how to manage TB, whereas approximately seven years ago, being able to manage TB was the skill of usually one person within a clinic,” she says.

Previously, patients endured the inconvenience of navigating separate queues, consulting rooms, and files for each condition. This often deterred many from seeking necessary care.

However, recent reforms have streamlined the process, allowing patients to undergo screening, counselling, and testing for both HIV and TB in a single visit, facilitating a more holistic approach to healthcare delivery.

As part of TB Awareness Month in March, Connell encourages individuals to test themselves at the nearest health facility, emphasising the crucial role of early detection and treatment initiation in curbing TB transmission.

She stresses the importance of building immunity through antiretroviral treatment for HIV-positive individuals.

In addition to clinical interventions, efforts are underway to address the social stigma associated with HIV and TB, with a focus on providing psychosocial support and promoting treatment adherence.

Listen to the full interview on Radio Islam International with Muallimah Annsia Essack.