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What Is Military TB?

Soldiers who have deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan are prone to contracting tuberculosis (TB), a disease causing lung deterioration and, if untreated, death. TB is spread by contact with bodily fluids of infected individuals. Rates of tuberculosis are high in Iraq, Afghanistan and other combat zones due to insufficient medical care. Victims of military TB are treated with a variety of antibiotics to cure the disease.

  1. Tuburculosis in the Military

    • Ten percent of soldiers who carry TB will develop an active form of the disease.

      Soldiers are routinely tested for tuberculosis (TB) when returning from Iraq and Afghanistan. Soldiers may also be tested upon request after possible exposure to the disease. One in 10 soldiers determined to be TB carriers will develop active tuberculosis despite adequate medical treatment.

    Contracting TB in the Military

    • Sharing mouthpieces on hookah pipes contributes to the incidence of tuberculosis.

      Soldiers in Iraq and Afghanistan are particularly prone to contracting TB when they are in close contact with infected local nationals. Coughing, spitting or sneezing by an infected individual can cause a soldier to contract TB. TB is perpetuated in poorly ventilated areas. Many local nationals also share drinking cups, flatware and hookah pipes as part of their culture, increasing their chances of spreading TB.

    Military TB Testing

    • Doctors administer purified protein derivative (PPD) skin tests to soldiers returning from Iraq or Afghanistan.

      Soldiers returning from Iraq and Afghanistan are tested for tuberculosis through a purified protein derivative (PPD) skin test. A small amount of liquid is injected beneath the skin. After 48 to 72 hours, the test is evaluated by measuring the firmness of the skin surrounding the injection site.

    Military TB Treatment

    • Ninety percent of soldiers who have contracted TB in the military will be completely cured of the disease after a nine month regimen of antibiotics. Antibiotics used to treat military TB may include isoniazid, pyrazinamide, ethambutol and rifampin. Military doctors may also prescribe vitamin B supplements to prevent deficiencies caused by these medications.

    Prevention

    • Military TB can be prevented by practicing good hygiene and interacting with local nationals only in well-ventilated areas. Washing hands with soap and water can prevent transmission of TB. The risk of TB is also lowered when soldiers avoid sharing drinking glasses, flatware and hookah pipe mouthpieces with local nationals.

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