Ogun begins 2025 integrated pediatric TB/HIV testing week

The Ogun government says childhood tuberculosis (TB) remains a challenge due to inadequate diagnosis and treatment, largely because children often struggle to articulate their symptoms.

The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Health, Dr Kayode Oladehinde made this submission on Wednesday at the flag off of 2025 National Integrated Pediatric TB/HIV Testing Week at State Hospital in Abeokuta.

Oladehinde emphasised the critical importance of prioritising children’s health, stating the importance of paying attention to the their health.

He said that persistent fever, coughing or an unexplainable weight loss should never be ignored, just as he urged parents to seek prompt medical when observed in children.

He explained that the week focuses on raising awareness about the disease and offering free screenings to facilitate early diagnosis, ultimately enhancing treatment outcomes.

“The objective of the 2025 testing week is to undertake a week long sensitisation, screening and testing of high risk children for TB across the state.

“All facilities are encouraged to screen all children brought to their attention at clinics for TB, during the TB week,” he added.

In his presentation, Mr Musibau Tijani, Monitoring and Evaluation Officer, Tuberculosis, Leprosy and Buruli Ulcer Control Programme, explained that TB remains a contagious bacterial infection caused by Mycobacterium Tuberculosis.

“It primarily affects the lungs and also impact other parts of the body; spreads through airborne droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes,” he said.

Tijani advised mothers to watch out for symptoms, such as persistent fever, coughing of blood, night sweats, and unexplainable weight loss.

“If detected in their children, they should visit any government facility for proper screening and treatments,” he said.

Mrs Olufunke Adu, the Focal Person, State AIDS and STDs Control Programme explained that HIV attacks the immune system, making individuals more susceptible to infections, including TB.

According to Adu, TB is one of the leading causes of death among people with HIV, urging mothers to visit clinics regularly for check-ups for themselves and their children.

She advised them to prioritise good hygiene and avoid anything that could endanger their lives or their children’s.