KNYSNA NEWS - After months of uncertainty and illness, 35-year-old Knysna resident Jason Hendricks is regaining his strength while receiving treatment for tuberculosis (TB).
Hendricks has been at Harry Comay TB Hospital for the past four months after unexplained weight loss led him to seek testing at his local clinic, where his TB diagnosis was confirmed.
"I feel so much better now. I've gained weight and can walk much more easily. I was very nervous before coming here, but the nurses have truly been wonderful. I feel safe and cared for," he said.
His recovery reflects an important message from the Western Cape Department of Health and Wellness: tuberculosis is preventable, treatable and curable, yet it continues to affect thousands of people across the province each year.
Marking World TB Day, the department urges residents to take action under the national theme "Yes! You and I can end TB". Health officials stress that ending TB requires a collective effort through early testing, completing treatment and supporting those affected.
Senior professional nurse Haylene Malgas, who has served at Harry Comay Hospital for 16 years, says though many patients show strong improvement, they stop coming for treatment.
"Many patients do very well in the first few months, but then don't complete their treatment. We don't want anyone to feel afraid to come back. Everyone's circumstances are different. We are here to walk this journey with you. We are still here for you and want the best for you," Malgas says.
Healthcare workers across the district continue to provide daily support, guidance and encouragement to TB patients throughout their recovery journeys.
TB in the Western Cape
Provincial statistics reveal the scale of the challenge. Between April 2025 and February 2026, at least 48 388 people were diagnosed with TB in the province. Of these cases, 57% were men, while nearly half were aged between 25 and 44 years.
Despite treatment being free and effective, only 90% of diagnosed patients began treatment during this period. Health authorities warn that delaying treatment increases the risk of spreading TB to family members and others, while also compromising their personal health outcomes.
Clinics across the province offer integrated HIV and TB services to ensure early diagnosis, effective treatment and ongoing patient support.
How residents can help end TB
Health officials encourage residents to take simple but vital steps:
- Test early if you have a persistent cough lasting more than two weeks, unexplained weight loss, night sweats or fever.
- Start TB treatment immediately if diagnosed - treatment is free at public facilities.
- Complete the full course of treatment, even if symptoms improve.
- Return to the clinic if treatment was interrupted - patients will be welcomed without judgement.
- Encourage family and friends with symptoms to get tested.
Medical experts stress that TB treatment works best when taken consistently every day for the full prescribed period.
Protecting families through preventative care
Residents who have been in close contact with TB patients are encouraged to undergo screening. Those found not to have active TB but who remain at risk may receive TB Preventative Treatment (TPT), which helps prevent infection from developing into active disease.
TPT is safe, effective and provided free of charge at public clinics.
Ending TB forms part of the department's Healthcare 2030 vision, which focuses on prevention, early intervention and strengthened community-based care.
This World TB Day, communities are encouraged to unite in the fight against TB with a clear message: "Yes! You and I can end TB".
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