Indonesia, South Africa and the Philippines saw the largest drops in TB case notifications.
Consequently, a half million excess TB deaths could occur, the WHO estimates, which would set the world back a decade in terms of progress on TB mortality.
The WHO analysis is based on preliminary data from 84 countries.
“The disruption to essential services for people with TB is just one tragic example of the ways the pandemic is disproportionately affecting some of the world’s poorest people, who were already at higher risk for TB,” said Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, director general of the WHO. “These sobering data point to the need for countries to make universal health coverage a key priority as they respond to and recover from the pandemic, to ensure access to essential services for TB and all disease.”
To get back on track with identifying and treating people with TB, the WHO report called for a scale-up of testing. One such strategy would be simultaneous testing for COVID-19 and TB, given the similarity of symptoms.
The report also outlines 10 recommendations for countries to follow, including a substantial increase in TB research investments.
To view the full WHO report, click here.
More articles on public health:
The race between variants & vaccines: Where things stand today
Epidemiologist Dr. Michael Osterholm on what the UK variant means for the pandemic’s 3rd act
Oregon, Ohio monitoring 48 people for potential Ebola exposure
At the Becker's 11th Annual IT + Revenue Cycle Conference: The Future of AI & Digital Health, taking place September 14–17 in Chicago, healthcare executives and digital leaders from across the country will come together to explore how AI, interoperability, cybersecurity, and revenue cycle innovation are transforming care delivery, strengthening financial performance, and driving the next era of digital health. Apply for complimentary registration now.
