Sri Vijaya Puram, Nov. 3: A collaborative effort was undertaken yesterday by the District TB Centre, North and Middle Andaman, Primary Health Centre, Kadamtala and the Andaman Adim Janjati Vikas Samiti (AAJVS) to conduct an Active Case Finding (ACF) initiative targeting the Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Group (PVTG) population residing in Spike Island, Kadamtala. This comprehensive outreach program aimed to identify any potential cases of Tuberculosis (TB) within this vulnerable community.

The medical team comprising of Dr. Lustin, Medical Officer, PHC Kadamtala along with the Tribal Welfare Officer, ANM and support staff from AAJVS Kadamtala, worked in coordination with the District Program Coordinator, PMDT Coordinator, STLS and STS from the National Tuberculosis Elimination Program (NTEP) in North and Middle Andaman under the supervision of Dr. Prabir Kumar Palit , District TB Officer, N &M Andaman. Together, they screened a total of 122 individuals from the PVTG population, out of which, 56 were physically examined for TB by Dr. Lustin. The diagnostic process resulted in 6 individuals being prescribed for sputum examination.

In addition to the medical screening, the team also conducted an awareness meeting with the tribal population and the staff of AAJVS Kadamtala. This educational initiative aimed to promote early diagnosis and timely treatment of TB, empowering the community and healthcare providers with the knowledge and resources necessary to combat this public health challenge effectively.