China unveils plan for tuberculosis control

BEIJING -- The Chinese government has unveiled an action plan to reinforce the prevention and control against tuberculosis (TB) amid global efforts to end the epidemic.

The plan, which covers the period from 2019 to 2022, specified responsibilities of government agencies including those in charge of medical treatment, education, medical insurance and science and technology and encouraged concerted efforts from various parties in society.

Actions would be taken to target key groups and areas, curb the spread of drug-resistant TB and improve capabilities of disease control and research, it said.

The National Health Commission will sign liability agreements with provincial areas with morbidity rates exceeding 55 in 100,000 to better supervise the implementation of prevention and control measures, according to the plan.

China has seen decreases in TB morbidity in recent years. It now aims to lower its rate of morbidity and mortality to under 55 in 100,000 and three in 100,000 respectively by 2022.