Public Urged to Stay Vigilant Against Tuberculosis Ahead of World TB Day

DH collaborates with trade to combat tuberculosis

The Department of Health (DH) today (March 14) urged members of the public to remain vigilant against tuberculosis (TB) and adopt a healthy lifestyle, which includes maintaining a balanced diet, avoiding smoking and alcohol, exercising, getting adequate rest, and maintaining good personal hygiene. These will help prevent TB infection and support the World TB Day, which has been designated by the World Health Organization (WHO) on March 24.

The Director of Health, Dr Ronald Lam, today served as the officiating guest at the launch ceremony cum awards presentation for the World TB Day 2026, an event organised by the Hong Kong Tuberculosis, Chest and Heart Diseases Association and co-organised by the DH. In his speech, he said, "TB is an important infectious disease globally and in Hong Kong. Over the past decade, notified cases have ranged from 3 000 to 4 500 annually. Although there is a downward trend, the incidence rate is more than 10 times higher than that of other advanced economies. Approximate one out of 10 people infected with tubercle bacilli develop TB disease weeks or even decades later. Those with weaker immune systems are at greater risk. Over a lifetime, one out of every 20 persons in Hong Kong will develop TB. Everyone is at risk of being affected by TB. Hence, we must not take it lightly under any circumstances. The notification rate of TB in Hong Kong has declined from approximately 150 cases per 100 000 members of the population in the early 1980s to about 40 cases per 100 000 members of the population today, a reduction of over 70 per cent. Hong Kong is densely populated with high population mobility and an ageing population. Despite these challenges, Hong Kong's effective control of tuberculosis can be attributed to the close collaboration between patients and healthcare professionals in achieving 'early identification and early treatment', as well as their full co-operation with the directly observed treatment service proactively provided by the DH's chest clinics."

He also pointed out that smoking is a major risk factor for TB infection and recurrence. He urged the public to continue supporting the government's tobacco control measures. In addition to extending the statutory no-smoking areas, Hong Kong will implement a comprehensive ban on the possession of specified alternative smoking products (including e-liquids/capsules/heat sticks) in public places, introduce the duty stamp system, ban flavoured conventional smoking products, and introduce plain packaging requirements for conventional smoking products.

"The DH's Tuberculosis and Chest Service is responsible for monitoring and controlling TB, promoting universal Bacille Calmette-Guerin (BCG) immunisation for newborns and raising public awareness about TB. The DH's chest clinics provide free TB screening and treatment to the public. The TB Laboratory under the Centre for Health Protection has been designated as the WHO's Supranational TB Reference Laboratory and provides advanced support for Mycobacterium tuberculosis testing, including rapid molecular testing and whole-genome sequencing for drug susceptibility testing," Dr Lam added.

To raise public awareness, the DH disseminates TB-related information on the internet and social media platforms. It also collaborates with the Hong Kong Tuberculosis, Chest and Heart Diseases Association and the Hospital Authority to organise a series of health education talks. These initiatives remind the public of the importance of remaining vigilant, seeking timely diagnosis and treatment for TB, and introducing preventive measures, all of which are aimed at achieving the goal of eliminating TB.

Early identification of TB cases and the prompt initiation of anti-TB treatment remain the mainstay of TB control. The DH's chest clinics provide free outpatient consultations and treatment for TB patients. TB treatment involves a prescription of multiple medications which normally lasts for six months. TB patients must strictly comply with the treatment regimen to minimise the emergence of drug-resistant TB.

TB is an airborne disease. When a TB patient coughs or sneezes, small droplets containing the tubercle bacilli are generated and spread in the air. If others inhale these small airborne droplets, they may become infected. However, prolonged exposure is usually the prerequisite for the disease to be effectively transmitted. Members of the public should be vigilant against TB and adopt a healthy lifestyle involving a balanced diet, avoiding smoking and alcohol, exercising and getting adequate rest in order to reduce the risk of contracting the disease. If they develop symptoms, such as persistent cough, blood in sputum, weight loss, fever and night sweating, they should seek prompt medical advice. If they are diagnosed as having TB disease, patients should strengthen their respiratory hygiene and cough etiquette, and receive TB treatment under the doctor's advice.

For more TB-related information, services and figures, the public may also visit the website of the DH's Tuberculosis and Chest Service (www.info.gov.hk/tb_chest).

DH collaborates with trade to combat tuberculosis Source: HKSAR Government Press Releases

DH collaborates with trade to combat tuberculosis Source: HKSAR Government Press Releases

Located in Tsing Yi, Ching Fu Jolly Net is redefining community support for the elderly. Subsidised by the Social Welfare Department and operated by Po Leung Kuk, the centre will officially open in mid-March, providing tailored services for seniors and their carers.

As one of three Jolly Net facilities managed by Po Leung Kuk, the centre aims to challenge traditional stereotypes of elderly care. By offering a diverse range of modern and engaging activities, it empowers seniors to lead fulfilling lives within their own communities.

These vibrant programmes have already become a significant draw for local residents, fostering a culture of active ageing.

Before retirement, Mr Sam So (right) navigated the city’s streets as a taxi driver, and now he has found a new outlet in the world of e-sports racing games.

Virtual vistas

After undergoing surgeries on both knees, Mr Sam So could not move and spent his days at home feeling bored. By chance, he saw the Po Leung Kuk Jolly Net nearby. Since they had an e-sports class, he decided to join.

Before retirement, Mr So navigated the city’s streets as a taxi driver and possessed a strong knack for car maintenance. Now, he has found a new outlet in the world of e-sports racing games, where he often outperforms younger players. 

“Life is vibrant and colourful now. I teach my friends the techniques I have learned and we play together.

“Everyone is happy. Recently, the centre even arranged for us to compete against some teenagers from Tuen Mun.

“We were lucky enough to win the championship. My friends and I were thrilled,” he added.  

The centre's diverse programmes take a holistic approach to wellness, enhancing both the physical health and mental well-being of its members.

Among those benefiting is Ms Lucia Tam. Previously struggling with poor health and requiring mobility assistance to walk, her life took a positive turn after she joined the centre. By actively participating in stretching and yoga classes, she has seen a significant improvement in her physical fitness and now enjoys a clearer, more vibrant mind.

“Discovering the centre had opened was a happy accident and I thought why not give it a try.

“So, I became a member. Now, I never miss a stretching class and I also take part in yoga.

“I have noticed a real improvement in my body. I used to struggle with simple movements and needed help just to walk or sit. Since joining the centre, I have completely set aside all worries.

“This is why I am so eager to take part in activities here.” 

Ms Lucia Tam (left) previously struggled with poor health, but her life took a positive turn after joining the centre’s stretching and yoga classes.

Golden opportunities

Po Leung Kuk Assistant Principal Social Services Secretary Rebecca Wong said traditional elderly centres often focus on basic care and social activities. While these services are important, she said they do not fully meet the expectations of younger seniors for growth and development.

“We aim to provide innovative and specialised activities that offer seniors more opportunities to develop their skills, showcase their abilities and achieve self-fulfilment,” she explained.

The centre offers a wide range of physical activities, including yoga classes, mountain climbing, canoeing and pickleball. These programmes are designed to help seniors maintain mobility, independence and overall health, while also providing opportunities to connect with nature.

To support emotional well-being, the centre also provides horticultural therapy, aroma therapy, art work sessions, latte art workshops and wine tasting activities.

These therapeutic programmes aim to reduce stress, alleviate anxiety and depressive symptoms, and help participants regulate their emotions.

To foster digital inclusion, the centre organises courses on artificial intelligence applications and e-sports activities. These initiatives empower seniors to keep pace with technological advancements, maintain mental agility through strategic thinking and strengthen their social bonds.

For many participants, Jolly Net is more than just a meeting point; it is a platform where they can showcase their talent, contribute to the community and lead fulfilling lives in their golden years.

Ms Rebecca Wong (left) says traditional elderly centres often focus on basic care and social activities, while they aim to provide activities that offer seniors opportunities to develop their skills.