Treatment of multidrug-resistant tuberculosis in Eswatini shows encouraging results

WHO reports that Eswatini adopted a six-month, all-oral regimen for multidrug-resistant TB in 2023 and recorded an 86% treatment success rate for MDR-TB diagnosed in 2022, while an estimated 54% of people with MDR-TB remained undiagnosed or untreated as of 2024.

Eswatini has introduced a shorter, all-oral treatment for multidrug-resistant tuberculosis and is reporting improved outcomes while facing continuing challenges. The World Health Organization recommended the six-month BPaL(M) regimen in 2022 and Eswatini adopted it in 2023. Health officials and WHO representatives note progress in treatment success alongside ongoing gaps in diagnosis and access. WHO has supported national planning and diagnostic tools to bolster case finding and programme management. Key facts: - WHO recommended a six-month, all-oral BPaL(M) regimen in 2022; Eswatini adopted it as standard treatment in 2023. - Eswatini had an estimated TB incidence of 319 per 100,000 and an MDR-TB incidence of 13 per 100,000 in 2024, and is listed among high-burden TB countries. - For people diagnosed with MDR-TB in 2022, treatment success was reported at 86%, while an estimated 54% of people with MDR-TB were not diagnosed or started on appropriate treatment as of 2024. - WHO supported the development of Eswatini’s national TB strategic plan 2024–2028 and assisted with digital X-ray rollout and technical support for programme management. Summary: The shift to a shorter, all-oral regimen and continued WHO support are associated with higher treatment success for people diagnosed with MDR-TB in Eswatini, but substantial gaps remain in diagnosing and initiating treatment for many affected people. WHO and national officials report ongoing collaboration to strengthen case finding and service quality. Undetermined at this time.