March 24: World Tuberculosis Day

Every year March 24 is being observed as World Tuberculosis (TB) Day to o build public awareness about the global epidemic of TB and efforts to eliminate the disease.
2016 Theme: “Unite to End TB”. It was adopted on the lines of 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by the United Nations. The goal 3 of the SDG aspires to ensure well-being and health for all. It also includes a bold commitment to end the epidemics of AIDS, malaria, tuberculosis and other communicable diseases by 2030.

About World Tuberculosis Day

• This day is observed to commemorate discovery of bacillus causing tuberculosis, Mycobacterium tuberculosis on 24th March, 1882.
• It is one of eight official global public health campaigns observed by the World Health Organization (WHO).

About Tuberculosis

• Tuberculosis is an infectious bacterial disease caused by various strains of Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It is the second biggest killer disease worldwide next only to HIV/AIDS.
• It commonly affects the lungs but can also affect other parts of the body.
• Transmission: It spreads through the air when people who have active infection cough, sneeze, or spit.
• Prevention: It can be completely cured if proper and regular medication is taken.

Month: Current Affairs - March, 2016