Isabel Province health mission expands tuberculosis prevention

A targeted tuberculosis (TB) prevention mission in Isabel Province has successfully screened 220 contacts to strengthen early detection and reduce community transmission. Conducted from July 24 to 30, 2026, the mission was supported by the Ministry of Health and Medical Services, the National Tuberculosis and Leprosy Program, and the Isabel Provincial Health Office.

The screening included 189 contacts of rifampicin-resistant TB cases and 31 contacts of drug-susceptible TB cases. The initiative identified 33 individuals with latent TB infection, all of whom were started on preventive treatment. Additionally, three new TB cases were detected and linked to immediate care.

Beyond patient screening, the mission reached over 200 people through community awareness sessions regarding symptoms and treatment adherence. The program also focused on frontline staff, screening 49 healthcare workers, 11 of whom were diagnosed with latent TB and began preventive treatment.