The World Health Organization issued a report last week citing worrying global numbers of Tuberculosis, however, Vincentians should not be alarmed since there have not been any increase in Tuberculosis activity in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines.

This statement was made by Medical Officer of Health in the Ministry of Health, Wellness and the Environment, Dr. Roger Duncan, during an interview with NBC Radio News.

Dr. Duncan said between 2021 and 2014 the Ministry has confirmed only ten cases of Tuberculosis across the country.

Dr. Roger Duncan noted "I know some persons must have noticed last week that there was a circular out from the World Health Organization (WHO) regarding increase in TB cases and TB deaths globally and some people had inquired as to what's happening here, what's the state of affairs here. He further stated that we have not seen any increase in Tuberculosis activity in the general population here at all or even specialized populations; meaning people who are in nursing homes, prisoners or anything of that sort. He further highlighted that between 2021 and 2024 we had accumulated ten (10) cases of Tuberculosis. One case in 2021, four cases in 2022 and 2023 respectively and a single case in this year thus far."

SOURCE: National Broadcasting Corporation (NBC)