Guimaras: Guimaras is being groomed to become the first tuberculosis-free island in the Philippines, according to a health group. In a media conference on Thursday afternoon, Philippine Tuberculosis Society Inc (PTSI) executive director Dr. Pauline Jean Rosell-Ubial said they are working on an initiative to test at least half of Guimaras' population every two years with the hope of declaring the town TB-free in four to five years.

According to Philippines News Agency, Ubial, a former health secretary, explained during the conference that this initiative was previously a project of the United States Agency for International Development, but funding issues led to its cessation this year. Despite this setback, PTSI is collaborating with the Department of Health (DOH) and the local government unit to move forward with their plans.

Ubial expressed optimism about the project, stating, "Guimaras will be the first TB-free island in the Philippines. Next is Siquijor and maybe Biliran." The long-term goal is to implement this strategy across all small islands in the country. She emphasized the importance of regular screenings, encouraging people to get X-rayed every two years.

For individuals who test positive for TB, treatment is available, and government health centers offer free medicines. It is crucial for all household members of a positive patient to be tested and, regardless of their results, undergo TB preventive treatment (TPT), which is also free.

Ubial highlighted the necessity of preventive treatments, noting that eliminating TB requires more than addressing latent and active cases. Mitigating risk factors and preventing infection are also key components of their strategy.