The United States, through the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), and the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Uzbekistan commemorated World TB Day by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). The Memorandum will strengthen cooperation between the United States and Uzbekistan to stop the spread of tuberculosis (TB), especially multidrug and extensively drug-resistant (MDR and XDR) type of TB in Uzbekistan.

In addition, the United States, the World Health Organization (WHO), and the National TB Program announced major achievements in reducing TB in Uzbekistan. CDA Alan Meltzer stated that since last year, USAID assistance trained nearly 2,000 healthcare providers, improved the ability of 40 laboratories to meet international TB testing standards, and helped introduce a new class of antibiotic, which for the first time will provide effective treatment to patients suffering from multi-drug resistant TB in Uzbekistan.

As part of World TB Day commemoration, USAID organized a media exhibition to display artwork, photos, and brochures to raise public awareness of TB and show its significant health burden as well as the daily struggles of people affected by TB. In line with the 2019 World TB Day theme, It’s Time for Action, It’s time to End TB, USAID and the Republican Specialized Scientific and Practical Medical Center of Tuberculosis and Pulmonology recognized healthcare providers and journalists from across the country for their exceptional contribution on the front line of fighting TB and increasing public awareness of TB.