How to Prevent Tuberculosis
Tuberculosis, an infection that attacks the lungs caused by bacteria Mycobacterium tuberculosis, is a form of infectious disease. Tuberculosis is one of the most deadly diseases in the world, with over 10 million cases each year. Tuberculosis occurs in the most populous countries: 95% of all deaths are caused by this disease. Annually, there are approximately 9500 Tuberculosis cases in the United States.
Tuberculosis: What Are the Causes?
Tuberculosis can be caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection. When someone suffering from active TB in their lungs, throat, coughs, talks, sings or sneezes, the bacteria can spread to the surrounding airways. These bacteria can be inhaled by people living nearby and they could become infected. You cannot get TB by touching an object such as a doorknob or from drinking the same cup as someone who has TB.
Several factors may increase the likelihood of developing active TB, such as a weakened immune system, HIV/AIDS, Diabetes or Cancer ; malnutrition; and living in crowded or poorly ventilated areas.
What is the Treatment for Tuberculosis?
Tuberculosis can be treated with a combination four to six monthly doses of antibiotics. Directly Observed Treatment (DOT) is the name of this regimen. To ensure the complete treatment, the patient is monitored by a healthcare worker during DOT. Failure to complete treatment can lead to resistance to drugs, making it more difficult to treat.
If the lung infection has spread to other areas of the body, or is very severe, the healthcare provider might recommend that surgery be performed. To help the patient heal, additional treatments like nutrition therapy and oxygen therapy are possible.
Progress in the Treatment of Tuberculosis
The recent advances in Tuberculosis treatment have been positive. The Lancet published a study that found that a drug-resistant strain of TB could be treated in three months with a combination five antibiotics. This regimen successfully treated 94 percent of test subjects, as opposed to the six-month traditional regimen that had a 70% success rate.
In 2018, scientists discovered a vaccine that can prevent TB from occurring up to 90% of the time. MVA85A has been successfully tested in humans. Clinical trials are currently underway for the vaccine. This vaccine would protect Tuberculosis if it is approved.
Can Tuberculosis Be Prevented?
Tuberculosis can't be prevented completely, but there are ways individuals can reduce the risk of getting it. Good hygiene is important. Individuals need to wash their hands frequently and avoid close contact with people who have active TB. If they're eligible, they should get vaccinated.
Individuals should also avoid excessive alcohol and smoking, which can cause a weakening of the immune system, making it more difficult for the TB bacteria to grow. People who work or live in areas that are not well ventilated or crowded should have regular chest xrays.
Conclusion
Tuberculosis, a deadly infectious disease, affects many people every year. Although there are no cures for TB, people can reduce the risk by practicing good hygiene and getting vaccinated. The recent advances in treating TB are promising. A new, drug-resistant strain of the disease can be cured in three months. There is also a vaccine that may prevent as many as 90% of cases.
Individuals can learn more about Tuberculosis and the prevention and treatment methods. This will allow them to take steps to protect themselves and those they love from the deadly disease.