The UP Corporate Wellness Programme, presented in partnership with Bestmed Medical Scheme, is pleased to inform you that we are continuing with our monthly group intervention initiative during lunch breaks, from March to October 2017. The information sessions, which will be presented by a Bestmed medical health professional, are aimed at educating staff on a variety of health-related topics and helping them to make voluntary behavioural changes that will reduce health risks and enhance their productivity and well-being. All UP employees should contribute towards building a healthier and more positive workforce.

The second information session will deal with tuberculosis or TB as it is commonly known. TB is an infection caused by the bacteria Mycobacterium tuberculosis. The most common site of infection is the lungs, but TB can affect many other areas and systems. People who have active TB infection spread the infection. When they cough, the droplets released in the air around them contain TB bacteria, which can be inhaled by those in close contact. Apart from active TB, a person can also harbour the bacterium without being actively ill, known as latent TB. TB is also associated with a lowered or weakened immune system e.g. HIV patients. The clinical picture, spread and presence of TB as well as the testing and treatment methodologies will be discussed.

By the end of the information session, persons who attended should:

• have a basic overview of the clinical background of TB and its symptoms, 
• grasp the risk factors for developing TB as well as the principles of diagnosing and treating TBD, and 
• understand the role of a healthy lifestyle as far as TB is concerned.

Date: Friday, 26 May 2017

Time: 12:30−13:15 

Presenter:  Medical Health Practitioner 

Venue: Lecture Hall 2-2.7, Natural Sciences 1 Building, Hatfield Campus

Please note that an attendance register will be circulated.

Further information can be obtained from the UP Wellness Coordinator, Stembiso Magagula, at [email protected]. Please direct all enquiries to him only.

Join us and start making health and wellness a way of life!

Kind regards