As we mark World TB Day, here is some information about the disease

In aid of World TB Day on March 24, The Fourways Review approached Witkoppen Clinic to speak with the head of the chest unit, Lawrence Mlotshwa, to help our readers understand more about the disease.

What is TB
Tuberculosis (TB) is a serious disease caused by germs that may spread from person to person through the air. The type of germ that causes TB is called mycobacterium tuberculosis. TB usually affects the lungs, but it can also affect other parts of the body, such as the brain, the kidneys, abdomen, skin, spine and more. It can also affect more than one body organ at the same time.

What are the symptoms of TB
Cardinal symptoms:

•  Persistent cough, sometimes stained with blood
•  Unexplained loss of weight
•  Persistent fever that lasts more than two weeks
• Drenching night sweats.

Other symptoms may include:

•  Chest pains
•  Fatigue or tiredness
•  General body weakness
•  Poor appetite.

How does a TB test work
Visit your nearest healthcare facility where TB symptom screening will be done. If you have any of the symptoms mentioned above, the following investigations might be conducted:

•  Sputum collection – results in 48 hours
•  X-ray of the chest and abdomen – result available same day
•  Abdominal ultrasound and/ or sonar – result available same day
•  Urine test – results within 30 minutes.

What is latent TB infection
Latent TB is a tuberculosis infection that causes no symptoms and is not contagious.

How does TB spread
TB bacteria is spread through the air from one person to another. When a person with TB disease of the lungs or throat coughs, speaks or sings, TB bacteria can get into the air. People nearby may breathe in these bacteria and become infected.

What is the treatment for TB
TB treatment duration depends on the type of TB that the patient is diagnosed with. It may take anywhere from six to 12 months and consists of a fixed-dose combination of four antibiotics.

How can I prevent becoming infected with TB?

•  Vaccinations can be given to newborn babies up to the age of two years.
•  Good ventilation – proper ventilation reduces the risk of TB transmission.
•  When coughing and sneezing, cover your mouth and nose to prevent aerosol spread to others around you.
•  Regular handwashing may help reduce the risk of infection.
•  Visit your nearest healthcare facility if you have TB symptoms for early diagnosis and start treatment if TB is confirmed.
•  If you have any other diseases, get treatment and be adherent.
•  If you are given TB preventative therapy, be adherent and complete the course.

Related article: Witkoppen clinic invites residents to observe World TB Day