TB is an infectious disease caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It primarily affects the lungs but can also impact other organs like the kidneys, spine, and brain.
TB spreads through airborne droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or speaks. It’s more likely to spread in crowded, poorly ventilated spaces.
Common symptoms include a persistent cough (lasting more than three weeks), blood in sputum, fever, night sweats, unexplained weight loss, and fatigue.
Yes, this is called latent TB. The bacteria remain inactive and do not cause symptoms but can become active later, especially if the immune system weakens.
High-risk groups include people with weakened immune systems (e.g., HIV-positive individuals), those living in crowded conditions, and healthcare workers exposed to TB patients.
Diagnosis involves tests like the Mantoux skin test, blood tests, chest X-rays, and sputum analysis to confirm the presence of TB bacteria.
Yes, TB is treatable and curable with a combination of antibiotics taken over 6 to 12 months. Completing the full course is essential to prevent drug resistance.
No, only active pulmonary TB is contagious. Latent TB and TB affecting other organs (extrapulmonary TB) typically do not spread.
The BCG vaccine provides partial protection against severe forms of TB, such as meningitis in children, but is less effective at preventing pulmonary TB in adults.
Symptoms like fever and fatigue usually start to improve within 2-4 weeks of starting treatment. However, full recovery depends on completing the entire course.
Both government and private sectors use WHO-recommended treatment regimens. Government programs often provide free medications and monitoring, while private care may involve different levels of personalized attention and costs.
Seek medical advice immediately. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for recovery and to prevent spreading the disease to others.
