Tirupati: '99DOTS' to monitor TB medication effectively

Tirupati: In fight against Tuberculosis which is one of the top 10 causes of death globally, '99DOTS' programme was launched in the district. The programme '99DOTS' (Directly Observed Treatment, Short Course) is expected to have 99 percent chances of cure of the patients taking the medicines for TB.

It helps monitor the daily intake of treatment through mobile based technology. Hitherto, it was being used for HIV-TB patients to monitor their intake of medicines. Henceforth, it will be used for TB patients too to effectively cure the disease with regular follow-up. Another difference was that instead of one mobile number in the past, now three numbers can be registered under this programme so that certain call connectivity problems can overcome. Explaining the importance of the programme to The Hans India, the District TB Control Officer Dr B Ramesh Babu has said that 99DOTS is an effective approach for improving TB medication adherence. The medicines given to patients for TB treatment are in blister pack wrapped in an envelope. There will be hidden phone numbers which can be visible only when daily doses are dispensed.

The daily single dose of tablets vary from 2 to 6 depending on the weight of the patient. The hidden number can be seen under the last tablet of the daily dosage, he stated. After taking daily medication, patients have to make a free call to that number which will automatically cut after a ring. With this it will be recorded that the particular patient has taken medication. When such a missed call is not registered around that time, a call from supervisory team will go to the patient to remember him.

This central government sponsored programme will be monitored by central TB division as well as state government. During normal course, any TB patient need to use these medicines for six months to get completely cured. However, those having other complications may need to take treatment for 9-12 months. To a question, Dr Ramesh Babu has said that there are about 3,000 TB patients in Chittoor district registered since January 2020.