Tuberculosis
Researchers explore role of co-infections in long COVID symptoms
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A team of microbiologists suggests that infections occurring alongside SARS-CoV-2 may contribute to some cases of long COVID, potentially by reactivating latent pathogens such as Epstein–Barr virus or altering the course of tuberculosis. Their perspective, published in eLife, stresses that this remains a hypothesis and calls for large studies and better animal models to test whether these co-infections help drive persistent symptoms like fatigue and brain fog.
South Africa has started rolling out the twice-yearly HIV prevention injection lenacapavir, though success depends on managing interactions with common tuberculosis medicines.
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The Free State Department of Health has launched an intensified “End TB” campaign in Welkom, targeting 22 000 patients who defaulted on tuberculosis treatment and current and former mine workers in the Lejweleputswa district. Residents are being screened and tested for the disease. Officials emphasise early detection to curb its spread.
Health Minister Aaron Motsoaledi has relaunched the South African Tuberculosis Caucus to strengthen the fight against TB. The platform aims to unite political leaders in advancing the national response to the disease. This move supports the Department of Health's goal to test five million people annually.
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Candice Andisiwe Sehoma, a young South African activist with Médecins Sans Frontières, has dedicated her career to improving access to affordable medicines and basic sanitation. From building flush toilets in her Alexandra community to challenging pharmaceutical giants on tuberculosis and diabetes treatments, her work highlights ongoing healthcare inequities. Her efforts have secured significant price reductions for life-saving drugs in South Africa.