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Tuberculosis Prevention

Tuberculosis, which affects the lungs and is transmitted via particles in the air, is considered a major illness. According to the World Health Organization one third of the world's population might be infected with the tuberculosis germs and the disease killed 1.6 million people in 2005, especially in Africa and Asia. Although tuberculosis, also known as TB, is a major illness, taking certain precautions can make prevention possible.

  1. Causes & Symptoms

    • Droplets expelled into the air by an infected person's sneezing, coughing or talking and inhaled by another person is how TB is spread. You can catch TB more easily from a relative, friend or co-worker than from a stranger. Symptoms of tuberculosis include appetite loss, coughing that lasts three weeks or more, coughing up blood, chest pain and fever. It's important to see your doctor if you have any of these symptoms.

    Being Tested

    • Getting regular tests if you have a high risk of contracting TB is crucial. Working in high-risk areas such as prisons, nursing homes and hospitals increases your risk of contracting TB. Conditions and illnesses that weaken the immune system such as being HIV-positive puts you at greater risk. Being an alcoholic, homeless and living in crowded spaces can be risk factors for contracting TB. Tuberculosis can remain latent with virtually no symptoms so being tested is important.

    Latent TB

    • You can test positive for latent TB, which has no symptoms but could become active TB. Your doctor will provide you with medications, which will reduce your chance of getting the active TB. It is important to take all the medication given to you and not to skip a dose as tuberculosis bacteria can become resistant to certain medications.

    Immunity

    • Keeping your immunity high for TB or other communicable diseases helps to ward off unwanted infections. Eating a diet high in fruits and vegetables, getting plenty of sleep and exercising 30 minutes a day keeps your immunity in the healthy range.

    Vaccination

    • A TB vaccination called BCG is being given to infants in high-risk countries. The vaccination prevents severe TB in children. A more effective TB vaccine is being worked on.

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