Om Molham with her children after recovery24 March 2025 — Every year, 24 March is observed as World Tuberculosis (TB) Day to amplify the urgency of ending TB, the world’s deadliest infectious disease which continues to devastate millions globally, inflicting severe health, social and economic consequences.
This year’s theme, “Yes! We Can End TB: Commit, Invest, Deliver”, offers an opportunity to reflect on ongoing efforts and encourage stronger commitment at local, national and international levels to end TB, including by combatting the growing threat of drug-resistant TB.
WHO has been instrumental in supporting the Syrian Arab Republic’s Ministry of Health (MoH) as it strengthens its national TB programme. WHO supplies medications for drug-sensitive and drug-resistant TB and contributes to the diagnosis and treatment of more than 3000 TB cases each year. It has delivered 6 X-ray machines and one CAD4TB artificial intelligence image reader for better diagnosis, and advanced molecular biology laboratory equipment to enhance TB detection.
WHO supported the development of the national TB strategy 2020–2026, trains health care workers on the latest WHO guidelines and treatment regimens, and has provided 5 mobile TB clinics to serve high burden and difficult to access areas in conflict-affected regions such as Deir-ez-Zor Governorate, where TB remains a persistent challenge.
In such areas, the partnership between WHO and local health authorities has driven significant progress in TB treatment and local health system strengthening.
Om Molham, a 57-year-old mother living in Deir-ez-Zoz, and her 4 children, were diagnosed with TB after her eldest son, Molham, began showing symptoms. Molham, a 19-year-old mechanic, had supported the family until his deteriorating health left him unable to work. Soon, the rest of the family also fell ill.
Om Molham, a widow, faced the daunting challenge of caring for her children alone, with little income. Her resolve remained unshaken. She ensured that each family member followed their treatment plan, attending regular appointments and undergoing necessary tests.
"I couldn’t give up on my children. Despite everything – losing my husband, facing illness and not having enough resources – I was determined to see them well again. Support from the free-of-charge TB centre gave us hope, and together we fought to survive," says Om Molham.
Om Molham and her children adhered to a rigorous treatment plan. Over 6 months of treatment and regular monitoring, the family achieved a full recovery. This successful outcome was made possible by Om Molham’s determination, the dedication of the TB centre’s health workers and their ability to provide efficient diagnosis for multidrug resistant TB and follow up with appropriate treatment.
As the world observes World TB Day, Om Molham’s story serves as a powerful reminder of the impact of commitment, investment and delivery in the fight against TB.
Progress made in Deir-ez-Zor Governorate underscores the effectiveness of WHO’s support in providing lifesaving treatments and strengthening local health systems. By continuing to commit, invest and deliver, we can end TB and create a healthier future for communities everywhere.