TB Spread Critical
The resurgence of tuberculosis (TB) in Thailand is becoming critical with infections showing increasing drug resistance, the Public Health Ministry warned this week. Charal Trivuthipong, director-general of disease control said inconsistent treatment was the main obstacle controlling the spread of the disease. Treatment should start within two months of the symtoms developing, and patients must take daily medication for at least six months. There were about 80,000 people known to have TB, with about 50,000 patients being treated. Thailand ranks 17 out 22 countries where the TB problems is considered critical, according to the World Health Organization. To mark World TB Day on March 24 and to conmemorate Her Majesty the Queen's 72nd birthday, the ministry
plans to identify and provide treatment to at least another 72,000 tuberculosis sufferers this year.