Tuberculosis

Skin test. That is all I really knew about TB before this class, was that I had to get 2 skin tests before I could work in any healthcare setting. Oh, and that you could get a lung x-ray or a blood sample instead. But what really is TB and how present is it in our world today?

Tuberculosis is a seriously infectious bacteria that effects the lungs. It is spread through droplets in the air, making it very contagious. It can remain latent in the body, until another disease makes it become active. The symptoms are a chronic cough, fatigue, and fever. TB weakens your immune system so that the likelihood of catching another disease is high and it can cause devastating effects on the body.

With this week commemorating World Tuberculosis Day, doctors and organizations have been trying to make the public more aware of treatment options for TB patients in the midst of the COVID-19 epidemic which is highly affecting TB patients. According to an article by UN news, Tuberculosis remains the worlds most deadly infectious disease. Doctors from many organizations are trying to stop the spread of TB, by giving out cost-efficient preventative treatment that could save millions. This treatment is given to those who are already infected with TB, but it remains latent.

According to WHO fact sheet, the goal is to end the Tuberculosis epidemic by 2030. The rate of fatal TB cases is decreasing by 1-2% each year, but in order to meet their goal the rate needs to increase. This can be done by ensuring complete treatment is given to all patients diagnosed with TB. Although the course of antibiotics is long and demanding, because it lasts for up to 9 months and requires thorough attention, it is possible with help people can be cured from this highly infectious disease.