TB on the rise in Manus

Manus Province joined the global community to observe World TB Day on Tuesday.

Acting Provincial Disease Control Officer, Brenden Ndrawi said the province recorded 68 confirmed cases and 11 deaths in 2025.

​Medical experts on-site identified poor living conditions and overcrowding in public spaces as the primary catalysts fueling the spread of the bacteria.

In response, health workers are now issuing a direct call to the residents of Manus that anyone experiencing a cough lasting more than two weeks must seek immediate screening at a hospital or local health center.

​The reality of the risk was brought home by the testimony of Sr. Anita Pohak, a health official and tuberculosis survivor. Her story served as a stark reminder that those on the front lines are often the most vulnerable.

​“Even health workers contract diseases while helping patients,” Sr. Pohak told the crowd. “TB affects all parts of the body and for myself, TB affected my heart, causing severe pain.” She said.

​She expressed gratitude to her colleagues at the Manus Provincial Health Authority for their swift action in conducting the screenings that led to her diagnosis. Sr. Pohak urged the public not to wait for a cough to appear before seeking help, noting that the disease can manifest in various ways across the body.

​Beyond the clinical challenges, officials emphasized that the path to recovery requires a strict six-month commitment to medication.

The day concluded with a plea for social solidarity, as speakers encouraged families to provide the necessary motivation to ensure patients remain faithful to their treatment regimens until a full cure is achieved.

Under the banner “Yes! We can End TB! Led by countries. Powered by people,” health officials and local leaders rallied the public to confront a persistent epidemic through both clinical intervention and community-led education.