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Experts in Meghalaya using Made in India Sputum collection machines for TB detection

ANI March 22, 2025 89 views

Meghalaya's tuberculosis elimination campaign has gained momentum through the deployment of indigenously manufactured sputum collection machines. The state's healthcare system efficiently processes 5-10 samples daily through a network of NAAT centers. The Made in India machines, equipped with 8-hour battery backup, have significantly improved the testing process. The entire system, managed by HLL Lifecare Limited, ensures test results within two hours of sample collection, marking a substantial improvement in TB detection capabilities.

"We collect sputum samples in the machine and deliver them back to the NAAT centres, completing the process within two hours" - Mebankmen Kharkongor, State Coordinator
By Shalini Bhardwaj, Shillong, March 22: The 100 Days TB Elimination campaign launched on December 7, last year nationwide and in Meghalaya has accelerated TB detection, treatment and awareness.

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Daily TB detection camps operate from 10 AM to 4 PM collecting 5-10 samples

According to Mebankmen Kharkongor, State Coordinator- Meghalaya HLL Lifecare Limited, stressed that Sputum carrier is playing crucial role.

Mebankmen Kharkongor said, "We start our camp daily in the morning, 10 to 11 am and finish the camp by 4 pm. We collect sputum samples in the machine and deliver the sputum back to the Nucleic Acid Amplification Test (NAAT) centres, wherever we are posted. For example, right now we are here in the Laitkor sub-centre. We collect around 5-10, samples. We keep it in the carrier, or maybe in the cold chain pack, and then we deliver it just after the camp ends like we are just 15 to 20 minutes away from the NAAT centre. So we deliver it at the nearest NAAT centre."

He said that Made in India Sputum carrier has a battery back up of approximately 8 hours.

"We collect around 510 samples, keep it in the carrier, or maybe in the cold chain pack, and then deliver it just after the camp ends like we are just 15 to 20 minutes away from the NAAT centre. So we deliver it to the nearest NAAT centre. So in that case, we shorten the duration whereby we keep this freedom with us. So then, we deliver it to the next."

He also stated that the entire process takes approximately a duration two hours from the collection of sputum till it reaches to NAAT centre and gives results.

"We have five machines and 10 cold chain carrier bags with ice packs," he said.

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