In order to support the faster progress towards TB elimination, GeneXpert machines (molecular diagnostic test for TB, which is advanced and more effective in TB detection) were handed over in Bardiya, Pyuthan and Mahottari districts under the IMPACT 2 TB project in March 2021. Five GeneXpert machines were handed to their respective mayors and installed in local municipalities of these high TB burden districts.

The GeneXpert installation in the health facilities led to the immediate detection of new TB cases. In Bardiya district, 2 new case were detected i.e. one DS TB from Neulapur Health Post and 1 DR TB from Rajapur PHC; and in Mahottari district another 2 cases were diagnosed from RamGopalpur Municipality.

Along with the handovers, district level sharing meetings were conducted as a kick start of the project.