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TB is in the air, watch out! – Doctor warns

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• Participants at the workshop

Any persistent cough lasting more than two weeks should raise suspicion of tuberculosis (TB), a physician specialist at the Greater Accra Regional Hospital (Ridge), Dr Woedem Tettey, has cautioned.

She said individuals who also experience unexplained weight loss, recurrent night sweats and difficulty in breathing should promptly seek medical attention and test for TB.

Dr Tettey gave the advice in an interview with The Spectator at a TB capacity-building workshop for journalists in Accra last Thursday.

Although TB is curable, she noted that delayed diagnosis could lead to serious health complications.

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“The earlier the disease is detected, the better the outcome,” she said, explaining that prolonged untreated infection allows the bacteria to cause extensive damage to the lungs and other organs.

Dr Tettey said the lungs were the most affected by TB but the disease could also damage other parts of the body, including the spine, lymph nodes, kidneys and the brain.

“So if someone has been coughing for two weeks and is diagnosed early, that person stands a better chance of avoiding complications than someone who has been coughing for a whole year before it is picked up,” she explained.

She emphasised that early diagnosis, adherence to treatment and completion of medication greatly improved survival and recovery.

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Dr Tettey also cautioned the public against stigmatising or discriminating against people diagnosed with TB, stressing that the disease was both preventable and curable.

“TB is in the air, so we are all at risk. That is why it is a public health issue. But with appropriate treatment and strict compliance with medication, a person can be cured and live a normal life,” she said.

Tuberculosis is a contagious airborne disease caused mainly by Mycobacterium tuberculosis and primarily affects the lungs. It spreads when people with active TB cough, sneeze or spit, releasing the bacteria into the air.

Health experts advise the public to practise proper cough etiquette, including covering the mouth and nose when coughing, and to seek medical care early when symptoms persist.

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By Abigail Annoh

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Police to begin full implementation of automated traffic enforcement from October 1

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The Ghana Police Service, through the Motor Traffic and Transport Department (MTTD), will commence full implementation of its automated traffic law enforcement programme, TRAFFITECH-GH, from October 1, 2026.

According to the Service, the programme forms part of efforts to address indiscipline on Ghana’s roads and improve compliance with road traffic laws and regulations.

TRAFFITECH-GH will use cameras and Personal Data Assistant (PDA) devices to detect traffic offences and support the enforcement of road traffic regulations.

Under the programme, detected offences will be reviewed and Electronic Notices of Violation (ENV) issued to vehicle owners or drivers through SMS. The notice will indicate the offence committed and the prescribed fine.

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The Service has therefore urged all motorists, drivers and vehicle owners to comply with road traffic regulations and support the implementation of TRAFFITECH-GH to promote safer roads and reduce road traffic crashes and casualties.

By Edem Mensah-Tsotorme

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Henry Brew Gardner declares intent to contest Agona West NDC Youth Organizer position

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Entrepreneur, Henry Brew Gardner has officially declared his intention to contest for the position of Agona West Constituency Youth Organizer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in the upcoming constituency elections.

In a declaration statement, Mr. Gardner said he is stepping forward with humility, courage and commitment to the progress of the constituency.

“I am stepping forward because Agona West deserves a Youth Wing that is active, united, organized, visible, disciplined, and ready to work,” he stated.

According to him, his decision to serve the NDC in Agona West is not for personal glory but a call to service, to unite the youth, strengthen the grassroots and build a formidable youth front capable of winning elections.

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“Our youth are not merely the future — we are the energy, strength, voice, and engine of our party today. We must therefore create a youth wing where every young person feels valued, heard, represented, and empowered to contribute,” he added.

Mr. Gardner said he believes in leadership that listens, engages, builds bridges and puts collective interest above personal ambition.

He outlined his vision to organize the grassroots, mobilize the youth, strengthen structures, promote unity, identify opportunities, support young people and build a stronger political force in every branch and ward of Agona West.

“I am not coming to divide. I am coming to unite. I am not coming to compete with our youth. I am coming to work with them. I am not coming for a title. I am coming to serve,” he declared.

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He called for prayers, support and guidance, rallying the youth with the message: “Agona West Youth, Our Time Is Now!”

By Edem Mensah-Tsotorme

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