New tests launched in Kashito detect TB among high-risk individuals

Varanasi: Under the National Tuberculosis Elimination Program, CY TB tests will be conducted within hospital premises in Varanasi for high-risk individuals to detect TB infections, followed by the provision of TB preventive treatment (TPT).
CMO Dr Sandeep Chaudhary said currently, the annual decline in the TB incidence rate is 2.5%, which needs to be increased to 10%.
The CMO said that CY TB tests will be conducted for high-risk groups visiting the hospital, such as those with silicosis, undergoing dialysis, chemotherapy, anti-TNF treatment, steroid and organ transplant recipients, diabetics, malnourished individuals, smokers, and alcohol consumers, to identify TB infections. Timely testing will enable immediate treatment, aiming to make the district TB-free.
District tuberculosis officer (DTO) Dr. Piyush Rai said that approximately 15,000 doses of CY TB have been allocated to Varanasi.
The DTO explained that the CY TB test involves an intradermal injection of 0.1 ml on the left forearm, with results evaluated by a medical officer within 48 to 72 hours. "If the induration is less than 5 mm (negative), the individual will be enrolled on the NIKSHAY portal but will not receive TPT. If the induration is more than 5 mm (positive), the person is considered infected with TB and will be enrolled on the NIKSHAY portal. If active TB is ruled out by the medical officer, the individual will receive 100% TPT (03 HP/06 H)," he said.