The interconnection between the TB and HIV epidemics in Eastern Europe and Central Asia

A press conference and high-level discussions on the interconnection between the tuberculosis (TB) and HIV epidemics in Eastern Europe and Central Asia were held in Tashkent. The events were organized by the WHO Regional Office for Europe and Médecins Sans Frontières, in cooperation with the Committee for Sanitary and Epidemiological Welfare and Public Health. 

The event brought together heads of national TB and HIV programs and experts from 11 countries across the region, as well as representatives of international organizations.

Speaking at the press conference, Dr Ihor Perehinets, WHO Health Security and Regional Emergency Director, stressed that drug-resistant tuberculosis does not stop at national borders.

The discussions placed particular emphasis on implementing WHO’s latest recommendations for HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis, advancing person-centered HIV and TB care, expanding the use of safer, shorter treatment regimens for multidrug-resistant tuberculosis, and ensuring continuity of treatment across borders for people on the move. 

Following the workshop, representatives of Médecins Sans Frontières, WHO, and the Ministry of Health agreed to intensify efforts to identify barriers to introducing new approaches, share practical lessons and program experience, and align national programs with WHO’s latest recommendations.

Mohigul Qosimova, UzA