For centuries, tuberculosis (TB) was a worldwide killer and feared contagion. A recent student diagnosis of tuberculosis has raised concern among students across campus in fear of a revival of the possibly fatal disease.
There are approximately 10 cases of TB per 100,000 people in the United States, but infections occur in much greater numbers in less-developed countries.
TB is a contagious bacterial infection affecting the lungs predominantly but capable of spreading to other organs.
It can be easily contracted when in close contact with infected individuals by inhaling the air droplets from coughs and sneezes.
The risk for contracting the tuberculosis bacteria is greatly increased by poor nutrition and unsanitary living conditions.
Typically, those at greatest risk for infection include the elderly, infants and individuals with weakened immune systems from immune disorders, such as acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS).
Symptoms of TB include excessive sweating, fatigue, fever, weight loss and coughing up blood.
One can be tested for TB infection by a biopsy of the infected lung tissue, a chest X-ray or a CT scan.
Many TB infections can become resistant to the routine doses of antibiotics, so multiple drugs are often employed. Drug treatments may last up to a period of six months after initial diagnosis.
When TB medications are not taken in the right combination or for the prescribed amount of time, the infection can become much more difficult to treat, and often the strain may become resistant to the available drugs altogether. Because of its high tendency for drug resistance, TB poses a greater risk than other bacterial infections.
A two-to-four-week hospital admission may also be necessary to avoid spreading the disease to a greater population.
This disease is not taken lightly by health care professionals. Doctors and nurses are required to report a TB case to the local health department.
Painful symptoms will generally improve within two to three weeks, and an infected individual’s prognosis is excellent if pulmonary TB, which is localized in the lungs, is diagnosed and treated early on in its development.
However, pulmonary TB can eventually lead to permanent lung damage, and medications used can lead to further side effects, including liver problems.
Just like with any other contagious infection, avoid those infected at all costs and be sure to keep your hands washed, rooms clean and maintain a nutritious, well-rounded diet to maintain a strong immune system. Seek out your health care provider immediately if you have been exposed to TB or develop any of the symptoms.
