WHO issues new guidance for treatment of TB

The World Health Organization (WHO) has issued new guidance with the aim of improving the treatment of multidrug resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB).

The health body says that fully oral regimens, backed up with active monitoring of drug safety and counselling, are now preferable. This approach is thought to be more effective and less likely to provoke adverse side effects.

Director general Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said: “The theme of this year’s World TB Day is: It’s time to end TB. We’re highlighting the urgent need to translate commitments made at the 2018 UN High Level Meeting on TB into actions that ensure everyone who needs TB care can get it.”