Andhra Pradesh Launches Adult BCG Vaccination Programme to Combat Tuberculosis

In a concerted effort to eliminate Tuberculosis (TB) by 2025, Andhra Pradesh is set to pilot a BCG vaccination program for adults in 12 districts this year. State TB Officer T. Ramesh emphasized the importance of early symptom recognition, highlighting India’s significant share of global TB cases. The initiative aims to prevent adult infections and supplement ongoing efforts, including over 10 lakh Truenat and CBNAAT tests conducted annually statewide.

Additionally, the government’s distribution of nutrition kits to TB patients, totaling over 95,000 across the state, underscores a comprehensive approach to combating the disease. In NTR district, volunteers known as Nikshay Mitras have been mobilized to ensure patients receive essential nutrition kits, enhancing support for TB care within local communities.