Introduction | Policy-Led Action Is Essential

Tuberculosis remains a major global public-health challenge. As China's National Tuberculosis Prevention and Control Plan (2024–2030) is implemented, ending the tuberculosis epidemic has become a key performance indicator for disease control systems at all levels. Building tuberculosis-free communities and cities is an important approach to reducing regional incidence.

Authoritative data indicate that traditional models relying on patients to seek care are no longer sufficient for prevention and control needs. Active screening and earlier intervention are widely recognised as effective ways to interrupt transmission. Large-scale molecular testing of priority populations can identify latent infections and sources of transmission at an early stage, helping to reduce incidence at its source.

Looking Back | Evidence from Thousands of Samples

Against this backdrop, the Zhejiang Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention and the Ningbo Center for Disease Control and Prevention launched large-scale tuberculosis screening programmes for older adults last year.

As a test of efforts to build local tuberculosis-free communities, the programme challenged both the public-health system and the high-throughput processing capacity and long-term operating stability of testing products.

Performance Demonstrated by Data

During last year's large-scale screening programme, the Zhejiang and Ningbo centres for disease control and prevention used Rocgene iFIND fully automated nucleic acid analysers to complete precise testing of more than 15,000 samples.

To meet the substantial screening demand, the technical team refined an eight-in-one sample pooling workflow to make full use of the iFIND system. Instruments remained ready around the clock and operated continuously at high intensity for 12 hours each day. This supported six testing rounds per day, with eight cartridges in each round, while demonstrating consistent equipment stability over several months.

Efficiency and Stability Together

Whether handling large sample volumes or operating in the complex environments of primary-level laboratories, iFIND delivered reliable data. Its low failure rate and strong experimental results earned the trust of laboratory staff.

Screening more than 10,000 samples demonstrated the iFIND system's reliability and stability in large-scale applications at the primary-care level. The programme also provided an implementable, reproducible technical approach covering the full regional tuberculosis screening workflow.

2026 | A New Round of Screening Begins

Protecting health is an ongoing commitment that requires sustained investment.

A new phase began in 2026. Building on last year's successful tuberculosis screening programme for older adults, the Zhejiang Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention has launched another round. Screening is currently underway in Chun'an County, with programmes in several districts and counties of Ningbo scheduled to follow.

This expansion strengthens prevention and control efforts and puts an upgraded screening approach, informed by last year's experience, into practice. We will continue to provide products with proven, stable performance to support the next phase of public-health protection.

Conclusion | Technology in Service of Respiratory Health

From last year's evidence gathered across thousands of samples to this year's renewed screening effort, the scope continues to grow while the commitment to stable product performance remains unchanged.

Screening is continuing. With reliable performance, Rocgene iFIND fully automated nucleic acid analysers support this important public-health effort and help advance the goal of tuberculosis-free cities across China.

Early screening and early treatment for healthier breathing.

Together, we look forward to

a future without tuberculosis.