World TB Day 2026 is celebrated annually on 24 March, and this year’s theme is Yes! You and I Can End TB. Despite growing awareness about TB, a gap remains between recognising symptoms and seeking timely medical care.

Health experts are calling for urgent action to close this gap. In South Africa, the disease remains a major public health concern, with the government estimating that TB claims around 56,000 lives annually, many among people living with HIV.

Approximately 249,000 people in the country developed TB in 2024, a figure that highlights the urgent need for more proactive interventions, according to the World Health Organisation.

“World TB Day is an important opportunity to raise awareness and push for action against TB,” said Dis-Chem clinic regional manager, Adrian Madimula. “However, in South Africa, the challenge lies in turning that awareness into early action.

“TB continues to spread largely due to limited understanding of the disease. Many people have heard of TB, but very few truly understand how it spreads, what symptoms to look out for, and how important it is to complete treatment.”

Early detection is critical in reducing transmission and improving recovery outcomes. If TB is diagnosed early, patients can begin treatment sooner and are less likely to infect others, he said.

Several barriers continue to hinder timely treatment. These include stigma, lack of awareness about where to seek help, and practical challenges such as taking time off work or school to access healthcare services.

Early symptoms include a persistent cough, fatigue, night sweats, and unexplained weight loss. These warning signs are often mistaken for less serious conditions, particularly during winter, resulting in delays in seeking proper medical attention.

The symptoms of tuberculosis. Photo: shutterstock

SA National AIDS Council chairperson Paul Mashatile is expected to deliver the keynote address at the national World TB Day commemorative event in Caledon on Tuesday (24/3).

The campaign supports the implementation of the National TB strategic plan, which aims to test 5-million people annually through expanded services and community engagement.

“A human-centred approach is key to ending TB. We need to shift from awareness to action by encouraging early testing, reducing stigma, and ensuring patients complete their treatment.

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OFM News/Zenande Mpame sm