In a significant push to accelerate the elimination of tuberculosis, the Department of Community Medicine at SKIMS Medical College & Hospital, Bemina, in collaboration with its designated TB Microscopy Centre, organized a comprehensive screening and awareness camp here on Wednesday as part the Centre’s flagship ‘100 Days TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyan’.

 

The camp, strategically set up near the Outpatient Department (OPD) to ensure maximum footfall and public participation, was formally inaugurated by the Principal of SKIMS Medical College, Prof Fazl Q Parray. The event saw the presence of Medical Superintendent Dr Shafa A Deva and Head of the Department of Community Medicine, Prof Ashfaq Bhat, who underscored the critical need for community involvement in achieving a TB-free India.

 

Speaking on the occasion, Prof Parray lauded the coordinated effort, stating that such proactive screening drives are vital for early case detection, which remains the cornerstone of the national TB elimination strategy. The initiative has received full backing from the departments of Pulmonary Medicine, General Medicine, and Hospital Administration.

 

Health experts, including Dr Altaf, Dr Labeeb, Dr Deeba, and Dr Muneeb, spearheaded the screening process, supported by lab technician Ms Farzana and TB Health Visitor Mr Waseem.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp ChannelPatients presenting with classical symptoms of tuberculosis—such as persistent cough, fever, weight loss, and night sweats—were systematically identified and evaluated.

 

Officials told news agency Kashmir News Service (KNS) that a considerable number of individuals were screened during the camp. Suspected cases underwent further evaluation, with sputum samples collected under strict infection control protocols. These samples will be subjected to microscopy and molecular testing in line with national guidelines to confirm diagnosis.

 

In a parallel effort, the camp also focused heavily on health education. Dr Amina and Dr Munzir Mehraj led awareness sessions to sensitize patients and their attendants about TB transmission, symptoms, and the importance of adhering to treatment regimens. Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) materials were widely disseminated to highlight the availability of free diagnostic and treatment services under the government’s umbrella.

 

“The initiative is a focused step towards strengthening active case finding and public awareness,” a spokesperson from the Department of Community Medicine said, adding that the department remains committed to sustaining such activities within the stipulated timeframe of the national campaign to help realize the goal of a TB-mukt Bharat. (KNS)