The United States, through the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), and in collaboration with the Tajikistan Ministry of Health, the National TB Program, healthcare professionals, international donors, and the community, has successfully completed its Eliminating TB in Central Asia Activity (ETICA) in Tajikistan, says press release issued by USAID on February 13.

Over four years, the activity has made remarkable achievements in the fight against TB, improving the quality of TB services and enhancing the knowledge and skills of healthcare professionals. 

USAID’s ETICA activity made significant strides in combating tuberculosis in the country by screening more than 83,000 individuals, including vulnerable and high-risk groups, finding new cases, and putting people suffering from TB on treatment.  In its efforts to enhance service delivery and quality, the activity facilitated the endorsement of evidence-based guidelines and policy protocols for the TB laboratory sector, and primary health and TB care.  

Supported by USAID, the National Reference Laboratory earned a certificate of excellence in performing modern testing for TB; new shortened regimens were introduced to optimize TB treatment, and the health workforce capacity was built to deliver people-centered, high-quality services.

In total, 1,645 medical and 1,392 non-health professionals enhanced their knowledge and skills on the various aspects of TB control.

USAID Mission Director Peter Riley expressed his enthusiasm for the event by stating, “The successful completion of the USAID’s ETICA activity in Tajikistan marks a significant milestone in the fight against TB. USAID would like to thank all partners, stakeholders, and the Tajikistan government for their unwavering support throughout the activity.  The achievements made would not have been possible without their collaboration and dedication.  This event celebrates the accomplishments of the Government of Tajikistan in the fight against TB.”

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