Tuberculosis (TB) has been a major problem worldwide, causing millions of deaths every year. India has also been troubled by this serious health risk. According to data, a total of 1.6 million (16 lakh) people died due to TB in the year 2021, TB disease is the 13th leading cause of death worldwide. India had targeted to eliminate TB by 2025, however, data shows that the actual situation is far from the target.
The World Health Organization (WHO) ranks tuberculosis (TB) among the world's deadliest infectious diseases. The total number of TB cases reported in India in the year 2022 was 21.42 lakh, of which Telangana alone recorded 72,878 cases. At the national level, the total cases of TB in the country have increased by 13 percent in the year 2022.
Health experts say that it is important for all people to take special precautions regarding TB disease. For prevention, we must have correct information about this disease.
Know about tuberculosis
Tuberculosis is considered a serious respiratory disease, it is a problem caused by bacterial infection, in which your lungs get infected. Other people may also be at risk of getting infected due to coming in contact with the droplets released by the cough and sneeze of a person suffering from the disease. The risk of spreading TB infection is seen to be higher in crowded places.
Till now, cough was mainly considered to be the main symptom of TB, however, in recent reports, a major change in its symptoms is being seen.
What are the symptoms in TB patients?
TB infection occurs when TB germs grow in the lungs. Most people do not show any symptoms in case of initial infection. Some people develop a flu-like illness, causing mild fever, fatigue and cough. In case of increased infection, the problem of mucus coming with cough, pain with breathing or coughing, fever-chills, and sweating at night has been seen.
However, in a recent research, scientists said that the main symptom of TB, i.e. cough, is no longer seen in most of the infected people.
Which people are more at risk of TB?
Health experts say anyone can get a TB infection, but some factors increase the risk. If you are in close contact with someone who has TB, you may also be at risk of developing the infection. A weak immune system increases the risk of TB infection.
The risk is also seen to be higher in people with conditions of weakened immune systems such as diabetes, lung disease, kidney disease, HIV-infected people, or cancer victims.
TB prevention and treatment
Doctors say people who have been tested for TB may benefit from medicines. To prevent the spread of TB disease, you should maintain distance from other people. TB patients should maintain proper distance from their family members as much as possible.
TB germs spread more easily in closed spaces. Therefore, you must maintain good ventilation in the room where you live. Wear a mask when you have to be around other people. Other members of the household are advised to wear masks for their safety. TB can be cured through medicines.
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