The Republic of Moldova is among the top 40 counties with a high burden of multidrug-resistant tuberculosis. TB prevalence in 2021 was 1,933 cases, up from 1,816 cases in 2020. The data were presented by the National Public Health Agency in connection with World TB Day that is celebrated on March 24, IPN reports.

According to the Agency, tuberculosis in Moldova is one of the major public health problems and its prevention and control represent strategic objectives of national interest. The incidence of TB in 2021 was 66.8 per 100,000 people, as against 54.0 per 100,000 people. Tuberculosis mortality in 2021 was 6.6 per 100,000 people, as opposed to 4.8 per 100,000 people in 2020. The men are more affected (75.2%) than the women (24.8%).

The theme of World TB Day 2023 is “Yes! We can end TB!”. It aims to inspire hope and encourage high-level leadership, increased investments, faster uptake of new WHO recommendations, adoption of innovations, accelerated action, and multisectoral collaboration to combat the TB epidemic.

In 2021, an estimated 10.6 million people fell ill with tuberculosis worldwide. Specialists of the National Public Health Agency warn that infection with TB can be prevented by vaccination and by obeying the personal and home hygiene rules. It is recommended avoiding contact with infected persons, smoking and drug use. If a person had been in contact with a TB-infected person, this should see the family doctor.