The Ministry of Health, Wellness and Elderly Affairs joins the global community in observance of World Tuberculosis (TB) Day, March 24, 2025. This marks 43 years since the day was first observed and 143 years since the discovery of the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis, which causes Tuberculosis.

Under the global theme “We Can End TB: Commit, Invest, deliver”, the Ministry reaffirms its commitment to eliminating TB in Saint Lucia through sustained public education, active case detection, and free treatment services.

In 2023, Saint Lucia recorded two documented cases of pulmonary Tuberculosis, with one associated death and no HIV/TB co-infections. This reflects Saint Lucia’s low-burden Tuberculosis status, as defined by the World Health Organization (WHO), with fewer than 10 cases per 100,000 people annually. However, health officials emphasize that even one Tuberculosis -related death is one too many.

Senior Medical Officer in the Infectious Diseases Unit, Dr. Gail Gajadhar, highlighted the importance of maintaining public vigilance and health system readiness to combat Tuberculosis.

“We cannot afford to be complacent. Tuberculosis is both preventable and curable, and the Ministry remains fully invested in ensuring that no one is left behind. Early screening, timely diagnosis, and adherence to treatment are critical to saving lives and stopping transmission,” said Dr. Gajadhar.

The Ministry continues to offer free Tuberculosis (TB) screening, testing, and treatment services across the public health system. Special attention is given to individuals with chronic illnesses, compromised immune systems, or prolonged coughing symptoms, who may be at greater risk of developing TB.

She further noted, “Public health teams remain engaged in community outreach and education, encouraging individuals who may have been exposed to TB or are experiencing symptoms to seek care promptly. The Ministry also urges parents to ensure that their infants receive the BCG vaccine, which protects against severe forms of TB in early childhood,” explained Senior Medical Officer in the Infectious Diseases Unit, Dr. Gail Gajadhar.

As Saint Lucia works toward the goal of ending Tuberculosis by 2030, the Ministry calls on all citizens to play their part, whether by getting tested when recommended, completing treatment when diagnosed, or supporting loved ones through their recovery.