Dimapur, January 24 (MExN): The Revised National TB Control Programme (RNTCP) of Nagaland has crossed another milestone with the launching of DOT Plus Services for the treatment of MDR TB (Multi Drug Resistant Tuberculosis) at the proposed DOTS Plus Site which is at TB Hospital Khuzama under Kohima District on January 24. MDR TB is simply defined as any TB Patient who has developed resistance to the first line Anti TB Drugs, informed a press note issued by State TB Officer, Dr K T Lotha.
The Commissioner& Secretary, Department of Health & Family Welfare Menukhol John chaired the launching programme. While appreciating the programme for achieving the programme targets, he expressed regret over the inability of the Department to give due attention to the TB Hospital. He also mentioned the desire of the Health Department to convert the Hospital into a Multi Disciplinary Centre which he hopes to project at the next national meeting.
Dr K T Lotha, State TB Officer presented a brief overview about the initiation and the future plans of setting up the DOTS Plus site. This was followed by a note of appreciation which was conveyed by the SMO of TB Hospital, DR Asunu.
After the function, Menukhol John initiated the DOTS Plus treatment by letting the patients swallow the drugs in his presence. This act is otherwise known as DOTS (Directly Short Course Chemotherapy) which is the heart of RNTCP.
It maybe stressed here that already three MDRTB confirmed cases have been admitted at the Hospital. They will be provided free treatment for 24-27 months. With the launching of DOTS Plus Services at the TB Hospital , investigation and treatment of MDR TB Patient will be available for all, free of cost. TB Hospital Khuzama or DOTS Plus Site Khuzama will cater to the Districts of Kohima, Dimapur, Peren, Kiphire, Wokha and Phek. Subsequently the 2nd DOTS Plus Site which will be launched shortly at TB Hospital Mokokchung will cater to the remaining 5 Districts.
The programme was also attended by Dr Toshevi Sema, Mission Director, NRHM, Dr. J. Chase, Additional Director, DH&FW, DR John Sweyievisa, JT Director, DH&FW, Dr T Chishi, MS, TB Hospital Khuzama along with Doctors, Nurses and Staff of TB Hospital, District TB Centre Kohima and State TB Cell Kohima.
