Multi-Drug Resistant Tuberculosis (MDR-TB) is a form of TB that has begun to become resistant to certain types of medication.
It is difficult to treat as it has the same symptoms as regular TB. These symptoms include coughing for more than two weeks, sweating at night, as well as a loss of appetite and weight.
MDR-TB can be transmitted through the same manner as TB. This mainly occurs through not covering the mouth when coughing.
According to the Gauteng Province Department of Health, the treatment of MDR-TB can take up to two years. The patient will be admitted to the Sizwe Tropical Disease Hospital in Edenvale for four to six months.
It is essential that patients complete the course of tablets and injections in order to ensure they are cured.
Once the patient is discharged from the hospital, the patient must still take their medicine even if the individual thinks they feel better. The medication should only be stopped when a nurse tells the patient to stop.
The patient must go to the clinic or hospital for regular check ups as well as to collect their medicine. By taking the medicine and completing the course, not only will the patient ensure they get healthy, but they will also protect their family and community from MDR-TB.
