Tuberculosis (TB) remains one of the most significant public health challenges in India and Haryana, particularly among children, where it often goes undiagnosed or is detected too late. The World Health Partners and SAATHII India in collaboration with Government of Haryana, State NTEP Division and Maharishi Markendeshwar University (DU) Mullana, Amabla has successfully organised a State level TOT on Pediatric TB covering the key challenges in the state highlighting the magnitude of the problem for TB diagnosis and lost to follow ups for TB patients. This significant training was conducted under the esteemed guidance of the Director General of Health Services (DGHS) and State Tuberculosis officer Haryana.
The training aimed to enhance the skills and knowledge of healthcare professionals in diagnosis, treatment and management of Pediatric TB. The program included interactive sessions, hands-on demonstration and expert lectures. Mr. Akhilesh Sharma Director Programs, World Health Partners highlighted that how this project will be a value addition in the Health System to support the government in TB elimination as per target. During training the hands-on session was focused for all the participants on Gastric lavage and aspirate using the Manikins for the same utilizing Skill lab of Maharishi Markendeshwar University (DU)- Mullana, Ambala.
Gastric Lavage is an invasive procedure requires trained healthcare professionals to perform it correctly and safely and can be uncomfortable for young children. This is the First Skill based training for NTEP in the State of Haryana. Addressing these challenges requires improved diagnostic tools, better training for healthcare providers, and increased awareness and reporting of Pediatric TB cases.
After this training every District is now equipped with 2 Master Trainers for Pediatric TB which will further help in strengthening of Diagnostic procedures and Treatment outcome for TB patients across the State.
Such initiatives in Health System will lead to ground-breaking efforts to enhance health systems for managing Pediatric TB and ensure compliance with the diagnostic algorithm and standardized treatment services.