March 24 marks the day in 1882 when Dr Robert Koch announced that he had discovered the bacterium that causes TB, which opened the way towards diagnosing and curing this disease. However, TB still claims 4 100 people lives each day and close to 27 000 people fall ill with this preventable and curable disease. The emergence of drug-resistant TB poses a major health threat that could put at risk the gains made to end the global TB epidemic. World TB Day is an opportunity to focus on the people affected by this disease and to call for accelerated action to end TB suffering and deaths.
World Tuberculosis Day 2024: Date
World Tuberculosis Day falls on March 24th every year.
Theme of This Year :
The theme for World Tuberculosis Day 2024 is “Yes! We Can End TB.” The theme carries a message of hope. It emphasizes the possibility of getting back on track in the fight against the TB epidemic. This requires strong leadership, increased investment in TB control efforts, and the swift adoption of new recommendations from the World Health Organization (WHO)
World Tuberculosis Day 2024: History
World TB Day commemorates the date in 1882 when Dr. Robert Koch announced his groundbreaking discovery of Mycobacterium tuberculosis, the bacteria responsible for tuberculosis (TB). Back then, TB ravaged Europe and the Americas, claiming countless lives. Dr. Koch’s discovery paved the way for diagnosis, treatment, and ultimately, the fight to end TB.
Significance of this Day :
World Tuberculosis Day holds immense significance in the global health community. It provides an opportunity to highlight the progress made in TB prevention, diagnosis, and treatment while also acknowledging the challenges that persist. TB remains one of the top infectious killers worldwide, with millions of people falling ill and losing their lives to the disease each year. By raising awareness and mobilizing support, World Tuberculosis Day aims to accelerate efforts towards ending TB as a public health threat.
