South Africa's fight against tuberculosis (TB) is set to receive a major boost tomorrow when Health Minister Dr Aaron Motsoaledi will be unveiling new technology to be used in the fight against TB at an event to be held in Prince Mshiyeni hospital, Durban.
This new technology, unveiled as South Africa marks World TB Day tomorrow, is able to complete TB testing in two hours as opposed to the current three weeks. The equipment has been purchased to improve turn-around times in the testing of the human specimen of TB. The Health Minister will also be introducing Geographical Information System (GIS) software which enables easy management of TB information detailing area and individual profile.
South Africa is among three countries in the world with a high burden of TB a matter that has been identified as critical in reducing the country's disease burden.
The health Minister will be joined by the Premier of KwaZulu-Natal Dr Zweli and health MEC in the province Dr Sbongiseni Dhlomo.
Members of the media are invited to attend this event scheduled to take place as follows:
Date: 24 March 2011
Time: 07h00
Venue: Prince Mshiyeni hospital
For more information please contact:
Fidel Hadebe
Cell: 079 517 3333
Chris Maxon
Cell: 083 447 2869
