Hi there, in celebration of World Tuberculosis Day 2022 which has the theme of "Invest to End TB, Save Lives". I wish to do my part by giving you some insights on what TB is. After all, a healthy reader makes a happy writer, right?
Basic Facts About Tuberculosis
Tuberculosis is a contagious infection popularly known as T.B. It is a bacterial disease caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It is a communicable infection which majorly attacks the lungs. The spine may be attacked if not treated earlier. It can be cured with antibiotics such as pyrazinamide and Ethambutol.
It is important to note that one does not get infected with tuberculosis unless one comes in contact with someone who has it.
Some common symptoms of tuberculosis are;
A cough that lasts more than two weeks.
Coughing out blood or sputum stained with blood.
1.Fever.
2.Night sweat and chills.
3.Loss of appetite.
4.Chest pain.
5.Weight loss.
The best way to find out if a person has been infected with this bacterial infection is by getting tested by a certified medical practitioner.
Types of Tuberculosis
1.Latent tuberculosis: This is a tuberculosis type in which the bacteria is present in one's body which could cause active tuberculosis. At this stage, tuberculosis cannot be transmitted from one person to another but the moment the immune system becomes too weakened to prevent the bacteria from growing, the disease becomes active and can then be transmitted from person to person. Latent tuberculosis has no symptom which is why it is advisable to get tested by a medical doctor to know your status.
2. Active tuberculosis: This type of tuberculosis comes with glaring symptoms and they are easily contracted from one person to the other. The immune system is weakened against the invading bacteria and such an infected person needs immediate treatment.
Who can get infected with tuberculosis?
Anyone can get infected with tuberculosis. However, there are certain people who are at a higher risk of getting infected. These includes;
1.Newborn babies and infants who have a weak immune system.
2.People whose family member, friend or acquaintance has been diagnosed with TB.
3.Healthcare workers who work at high risk places such as hospitals.
4.Smokers.
5.People with acute diseases that weaken the immune system such as HIV/AIDS, diabetes, head and neck cancers.
How to Prevent the Spread of Tuberculosis
As of 2018, tuberculosis has been declared the leading infectious disease killer in the world and certain parameters have been put in place to curb its spread.
The World Tuberculosis day which is always celebrated on March 24 has also become an important avenue through which awareness of the disease has been made around the world.
Some important methods of preventing the spread of tuberculosis are:
1.Getting vaccinated.
2.Taking all medicines as prescribed by the doctor.
3.Always cover your mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Seal the tissue in a plastic bag, then throw it away.
4.Wash your hands after coughing or sneezing.
5.Avoid crowded spaces as much as possible if you are infected; work from home if need be and refuse visitations.
6.Use a fan or open windows around you to keep your surroundings well ventilated.
Disclaimer:
This write-up does not in any way refute or replace the advice of a certified medical doctor. This is written in a bid to provide basic awareness about the disease.
Thank you.
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