The Kogi State Ministry of Health has taken delivery of ten Molbio Truenat machines from the Federal Ministry of Health in a significant stride in the battle against tuberculosis. These cutting-edge machines, which utilize molecular-based technology, will facilitate early detection and treatment of tuberculosis within the state.
Kogi State Tuberculosis and Leprosy Control Program Manager Dr Komolafe Rotimi, represented by Ayodele Oloke, the Kogi State Laboratory Focal Person for TB and Leprosy Control Program, has confirmed that the state government has provided the designated health facilities for the installation and operation of these machines. Oloke further mentioned that laboratory personnel from Kogi, Niger, Nasarawa, Benue and FCT underwent comprehensive training on the installation and operation of the machines in Lokoja.
The Molbio Truenat machine represents a significant advancement in tuberculosis diagnosis. Its ability to detect the disease in patients prior to treatment initiation ensures prompt and effective intervention. The molecular-based technology of these machines positions them as indispensable tools in the fight against tuberculosis and other diseases as the machine can be used to test for other disease outside TB.
Kogi State has been allocated ten machines, while other states have received eight each. This allocation underscores the state government’s dedication to eradicating tuberculosis by 2030, aligning with the Federal Ministry of Health’s strategic plan.
In a collaborative effort between the Global Fund, the National Tuberculosis and Leprosy Control Programme and the Federal Ministry of Health, 333 Truenat machines have been deployed to 36 states, including the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja. This initiative aims to eliminate tuberculosis in Nigeria by 2030.
Tony Ndukwe, the Technical Manager for Weierstrass Michael Limited an Official Distributor of Molbio Truenat in Nigeria, highlighted that these machines are designed to operate under any temperature conditions and are equipped with a solar system and battery. This feature enables the machines to function even in areas without electricity, making them particularly suitable for rural settings.
Yekini Suleiman Egbalaye, a Senior Medical Laboratory Scientist and representative of the Federal Ministry of Health, Abuja, emphasized that the Truenat machine adopts a molecular technique to detect mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB) and the resistant stain. The machine consists of three devices: trueprep, truelab, and truelux.
The trueprep device isolates DNA, while the truelab device detects MTB. This technology enables accurate and rapid diagnosis of tuberculosis, facilitating prompt treatment and improving patient outcomes.
Participants at the training including laboratory personnel from Niger, Benue, Nasarawa, FCT and Kogi states, expressed satisfaction with the training and pledged to apply their newfound knowledge in their respective state.
The deployment of the Molbio Truenat machines in Kogi State marks a significant milestone in the fight against tuberculosis. With these machines, the state is poised to make significant strides in detecting and treating the disease, ultimately reducing its prevalence and improving the health and well-being of its citizens.
