Market men and women, especially the elderly at Agbaje, Agbeni, Ayeye, Ogunpa amongst other markets in Ibadan, have trooped out in their numbers to benefit from a free medical service organised by the Oyo State Primary Health Care Board.
The initiative, which was also in partnership with USAID Breakthrough Action Nigeria and other development partners, featured COVID–19 vaccination, free TB screening, HIV/AIDS testing and blood pressure and a motorised campaign, was in commemoration of the 2023 World Tuberculosis Day.
On the occasion, members of the public experiencing cough of more than two weeks were advised to present themselves for free Tuberculosis screen and testing at Primary Health Care Centres in the thirty three local government areas of Oyo State.
Deputy Director, Public Health, Oyo State Primary Health Care Board, Dr Johnson Babalola who gave the advice in an interview with newsmen, said with the help of the federal, state and international partners; screening, testing and treatment of tuberculosis is free in the state.
He, however, appealed to residents of the state to avail themselves the opportunity to check TB status by visiting the nearest Primary Health Care Centres.
The medical expert, who explained that TB is a curable disease explained that Oyo State has over six hundred dot facilities in all the local government areas, where people can get the free test and anti TB drugs.
The medical services which was held simultaneously across the state is expected to continue with other activities lined up for 2023 World TB day.
Meanwhile, World TB day which is celebrated on the 24th of March each year, was to raise awareness on the need for people to go for screening, treatment and take precautionary measures against the spread of the disease.