President Muizzu Highlights Maldives' Low TB Burden on World Tuberculosis Day

President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has reaffirmed the Maldives' commitment to public health, using World Tuberculosis Day to highlight the nation's success in maintaining a low burden of the disease. In a social media post, the President noted that tuberculosis remains a global threat, affecting millions despite being preventable and curable. He emphasized the critical role of robust healthcare systems, early detection, and community involvement in the fight to end TB. The administration's strategy focuses on strengthening the healthcare system's structure to protect vulnerable populations. President Muizzu stated that the Maldives takes pride in its low TB burden status and is actively working to enhance early detection, improve access to rapid diagnostics and treatment, and ensure care reaches those who need it most. He called for a united effort to safeguard these public health achievements, urging collective action with health workers and communities to build a future free from tuberculosis. The disease, caused by the bacterium *Mycobacterium tuberculosis*, primarily attacks the lungs but can spread to other organs. As a highly contagious airborne illness, it poses a significant transmission risk. To combat this, the Maldives has operated a dedicated national tuberculosis control program since 1994. This program ensures treatment is provided under the direct supervision of healthcare professionals, following strict international standards to manage and prevent the spread of the disease.