DepEd to strengthen TB prevention and control program
The Department of Education (DepEd) through its Health and Nutrition Center will strengthen the implementation of the Tuberculosis (TB) Prevention and Control Program.
"Prevention is the best step we can take against TB," Lapus said. "Through this joint effort, we will ensure that our teachers and students are well-informed on how to prevent TB within their respective communities."
In partnership with the Department of Health (DOH), DepEd will adopt the Comprehensive and Unified Policy on TB Control in the Philippines (CUPTBCP), which utilizes the Directly Observed Treatment Short Course Strategy (DOTS). DOH will assist in providing the needs of the program while DepEd will be responsible for the integration of TB Prevention messages in the school curricula. Both government agencies will be in charge of program execution, which will be supervised by DepEd Regional Directors and School Division Superintendents.
Components of the program include the dissemination and education on health information, health service delivery, regular monitoring of the program's implementation and accomplishments, collaboration with Parent-Teacher-Community Associations and the solicitation of administrative support for funding and other needs.
Local government units (LGUs), NGOs and PTCAs will also be involved in creating TB awareness.
"The support of the whole community is vital in this campaign," Lapus added. "Ensuring their well-being is essential in boosting the academic performance of our educators and pupils in our schools."
(DepEd)