Tuberculosis is not exactly a hot button health issue, compared, for example, to dengue. But it is still a present threat and so today the Ministry of Health held a health fair in commemoration. The fair was held in the ITVET compound - and offered a wide variety of knowledge along with a number of free testing for the general public. 7news spoke with coordinator, Antonio Coy:

Anthony Coy, Coordinator
"Well we're here actually celebrating our Tuberculosis Day, which was celebrated on March 24, yesterday. We're having a health fair to conclude the entire week of celebration."

Monica Bodden
"Now tell us a little bit about the health fair and its purpose."

Anthony Coy
"The purpose of the fair is to educate the children about tuberculosis and other diseases that could affect person in connection with tuberculosis. We have the Diabetes Association out there, the Pharmacy from Central Region; inside we're doing free HIV testing. So the Diabetes Association is here present as well."

Monica Bodden
"Tell us a little bit about this disease."

Anthony Coy
"Well tuberculosis is an airborne disease which is spread through the air, and it's a contagious disease. So what we are trying to do is to try to make the entire country aware of it. Every district is celebrating their week as well so we are having a full week of activities in awareness of this disease."

This year's theme is - On the move against tuberculosis - innovate to accelerate action.

Channel 7