Efforts to help TB patients appreciable: US Consul General

Hyderabad: In observance of the upcoming World Tuberculosis Day on March 24, U.S. Consul General in Hyderabad Katherine Hadda attended an event recognising the efforts of the Government of Telangana, the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), and its local implementing partners in the fight against tuberculosis (TB) in Hyderabad.

The event, attended by representatives from the Government of Telangana, USAID, and local partners Karnataka Health Promotion Trust (KHPT) and the Telangana-based TB Alert India, focused on the efforts of the USAID Tuberculosis Health Action Learning Initiative (THALI) in Hyderabad.  THALI is a multi-city project and supports the Government of India (GOI)-led Revised National Tuberculosis Control Program (RNTCP) in identifying, applying, and scaling up successful and innovative approaches that address TB.

At the event, Consul General Hadda viewed a photo exhibit which explained the societal and environmental factors that lead to TB and also chronicled the journey of those diagnosed with the disease.  She also heard testimonials from those diagnosed with TB and who have themselves benefitted from the services offered through THALI.  Finally, the Consul General presented awards to recognise those who have been involved in raising awareness, identifying patients, and other implementation activities.

“USAID and its partners, KHPT and TB Alert India, are doing outstanding work to support the Government of India’s TB eradication efforts,” commented Consul General Hadda, “As we approach World TB Day, it was eye-opening to see photos and hear testimonials of those who have been so affected by this terrible disease right here in Hyderabad, and at the same time learn more about how India and the United States are working together to help them.”