Q1. With reference to India’s tuberculosis (TB) elimination efforts, consider the following statements:

1. JOSH teams aim to strengthen active case finding by identifying symptomatic individuals who may remain outside the formal healthcare system.
2. Referral of a person with TB symptoms for testing is equivalent to a confirmed diagnosis of tuberculosis.
3. Community volunteers can contribute to TB elimination by supporting treatment adherence and connecting individuals with healthcare services.
4. The National TB Elimination Programme (NTEP) is implemented by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.

How many of the statements given above are correct?

(a) Only one

(b) Only two 

(c) Only three 

(d) All four

Answer: 

Explanation:

• Statement 1 is Correct: Active case finding seeks to identify undiagnosed TB cases, including among people who do not approach health facilities themselves.
• Statement 2 is Incorrect: Referral is a step towards diagnosis. Confirmation requires appropriate diagnostic evaluation.
• Statement 3 is Correct: Community participation can improve access to testing, treatment continuity and patient support.
• Statement 4 is Correct: NTEP operates under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.