As the world comes together to tackle the COVID 19 pandemic it is important to ensure that essential health services and operations are continued to protect the lives of people with TB and other diseases or health conditions Health services including national programmes to combat TB need to be actively engaged in ensuring an effective and rapid response to COVID 19 while ensuring that TB services are maintained In the lead up to World TB Day Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus WHO Director General emphasized in a news release COVID 19 is highlighting just how vulnerable people with lung diseases and weakened immune systems can be The world committed to end TB by 2030 improving prevention is key to making this happen WHO Global TB Programme along with WHO regional and country offices has developed an information note in collaboration with stakeholders This note is intended to assist national TB programmes and health personnel to urgently maintain continuity of essential services for people affected with TB during the COVID 19 pandemic driven by innovative people centred approaches as well as maximizing joint support to tackle both diseases We stand in solidarity with those affected by COVID 19 and those at the frontlines of the fight to combat the disease said Dr Tereza Kasaeva Director of the WHO Global TB Programme We need to act with urgency to ensure that in line with our vision of Health for All no one with TB COVID 19 or any health condition will miss out on the prevention and care they need It s time for action This information note was originally published on 20 March 2020 and later updated on 4 April 12 May and 15 December