78th WHA Individual Statements
MSF welcomes the extension of the comprehensive implementation plan on maternal, infant and young child nutrition, but we are alarmed that the plan does not have a single mention of tuberculosis. Every 3 minutes 1 child dies of tuberculosis and malnutrition is the major risk factor to develop tuberculosis. We must break down the walls between the vertical tuberculosis and nutrition programs. Most malnourished children with tuberculosis seek care through nutrition programs which have little capacity to diagnose tuberculosis. Children who are displaced or living in conflict or fragile humanitarian settings are the most vulnerable to malnutrition and tuberculosis. MSF urges all countries to ensure policy reform to be aligned with WHO, and investments for implementation so that all malnourished children can access life-saving diagnosis, treatment and prevention of tuberculosis.