Tuberculosis is still a major public health problem around the world and the public should build up their bodily resistance against the disease, Secretary for Health, Welfare & Food Dr York Chow says.

At a ceremony marking World TB Day, Dr Chow said there were about 8 million new cases in the world, among which about 2 million were fatal. In Hong Kong the annual reported cases remained at 6,000 in recent years. 

Dr Chow noted Hong Kong adopted directly observed treatment for tuberculosis patients in the past few decades which required them to take every dose of the medication under the direct observation of healthcare staff.

Director of Health Dr Lam Ping-yan said Hong Kong's tuberculosis notification rate was 10 times higher than that of Western developed countries.

As the tuberculosis incubation period can be from several weeks to several decades, a set of long-term and effective preventive measures is essential to fight against it, he added.

In addition to the use of DOT, contact tracing and detection of new tuberculosis cases are important preventive measures. As a preventive measure, medicines have also been offered to patients' family members who are infected, to minimise the chance of onset of the disease.

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Dr Lam said close contact with the World Health Organisation and the International Union Against Tuberculosis & Lung Disease has been maintained in the fight against the disease which is a worldwide problem.

He noted the collaboration of all sectors of the community is essential in the fight against the disease.

To prevent tuberculosis, the public should build up their bodily resistance by getting adequate rest and exercise as well as adhering to a balanced diet. Parents should make sure that their children receive the BCG vaccination for protection against tuberculosis.

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