What is Tuberculosis (TB)?

Tuberculosis (TB) is a contagious disease caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis. TB primarily affects the lungs but can also impact other parts of the body, such as the bones, kidneys, or brain. The disease spreads through the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks.

Causes

TB is caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It spreads through the air when an active TB patient coughs, sneezes, or talks. Anyone can contract TB, but the risk is higher for those who:

• Frequently come into contact with TB patients.
• Have weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS.
• Suffer from malnutrition.
• Live in crowded or poorly ventilated environments.

Symptoms

TB symptoms vary depending on the affected part of the body, but common symptoms include:

• Persistent cough with sputum for more than 2 weeks, sometimes with blood.
• Fever and night sweats.
• Unexplained weight loss.
• Fatigue and weakness.
• Chest pain or shortness of breath.

In latent TB (inactive TB), a person is infected with the bacteria but shows no symptoms and is not contagious. However, latent TB can progress to active TB if not treated.

Treatment

TB can be cured with the appropriate treatment. Treatment involves a combination of antibiotics taken regularly for 6-9 months. Incomplete treatment can lead to drug resistance, known as drug-resistant TB, which is much harder to treat.

Prevention

• BCG Vaccine: The BCG (Bacillus Calmette-Guérin) vaccine can help prevent TB, especially in children.
• Avoid Close Contact: Especially in enclosed or poorly ventilated spaces with active TB patients.
• Use Masks: Essential to prevent the spread of bacteria, particularly for those with active TB.
• Routine Care for Latent TB: Taking medication as prescribed by a doctor can prevent the progression to active TB.

References:

• Center for Disease Control and Prevention - Tuberculosis
• World Health Organization (WHO) - Tuberculosis
• Global Epidemiology of Tuberculosis - Health Journal