People with COVID-19 and people with tuberculosis (TB) can experience similar symptoms such as coughing and breathing difficulties as both diseases affect the lungs. Exactly how these diseases affect the lungs, however, differs. Tiyese Jeranji spoke to a leading South African pulmonologist to learn more.
Some tuberculosis patients in South Africa are still required to take their pills in front of a healthcare worker or family member. Is this a justified means of ensuring people take their medicine, or is it an invasion of personal autonomy? Elri Voigt asked local TB experts.
A leading TB doctor says that “it is no exaggeration to say there is a TB crisis in the country”, and that “the impact of this crisis could be even more devastating than COVID-19”. Kathryn Cleary explores the COVID-19 pandemic’s impact on South Africa’s TB response and the way forward.
Around 10 million people get sick with TB every year. On World TB Day Amy Green asks what COVID-19 means for this group of people.
By Anso Thom and Marcus Low – The Medicines Control Council (MCC) this week suspended what appears to be unlawful stem cell experimentation at Pelonomi, a state hospital in Bloemfontein.
By Ufrieda Ho A simple well-managed idea is not only easing pressure on the Free State health care system and making HIV-positive patients’ lives easier – it also seems to…
Angy Peter didn’t believe she needed ARVs. She had maas and garlic mix and that’s all she thought she needed. Things changed when she encountered a TAC volunteer. Read her story.
Mandisa Sonti had a close relationship with her sister. When she passed away, Mandisa was devastated and looked to the TAC for support. Read more.
MaMatwa suffered devastating loss when her home was petrol bombed. Read how she was able to fight for justice with the support of the TAC.
The Thuthuzela Centre based in the Khayelitsha Day Hospital offers a vital service to the community. Medical coordinator, Dr Genine Josias talks about the joys and challenges of running the centre.
The Khayelitsha Police Station, like many across the country has to deal with crime and violence and in many cases a lack of trust from the community. In these cases, it helps to have a mouthpiece to help build bridges. The TAC has fulfilled this role.
MaDlamini shares the heartwrenching story of her struggle for answers after her daughter was discharged one day after undergoing surgery to remove a cyst on her brain and eventually passed away.