West Sulawesi Health Office Finds 1,743 Tuberculosis Cases, Warns of Undetected Infections

The West Sulawesi Health, Population Control and Family Planning Office (Dinkes P2KB) has identified 1,743 cases of tuberculosis (TBC) in the region up to June 2026. Head of the office, Nursyamsi Rahim, stated in Mamuju on Saturday that the findings are concerning, as they represent only 34.8 percent of the estimated 5,002 total cases. This leaves approximately 3,259 cases, or 65.2 percent, still undetected. “Only 34.8 percent of cases have been found and treated by mid-year,” Nursyamsi said. He expressed concern that undetected patients are likely continuing their daily activities and could each transmit the bacteria to 10 to 15 people annually. Epidemiologist Harsalim from the West Sulawesi Dinkes P2KB attributed the high number of missed cases to low public awareness and the stigma associated with the disease. He urged residents not to hesitate in seeking medical attention if they experience a persistent cough lasting more than two weeks. “The most important thing is that all TBC examinations and medications are provided free of charge by the government at community health centres,” Harsalim emphasised. The office is intensifying active case finding initiatives to accelerate the elimination of tuberculosis. Harsalim noted that this effort is part of the provincial government’s commitment to improving public health standards in line with the vision of a prosperous West Sulawesi.