Tuberculosis has been with us for too long, archaeological and scriptural evidences substantiate this. An epidemic that should belong to the past is still spreading alarming at an increasing rate globally, despite remarkable breakthroughs in the field of medicine and excellent progress in expanding the stop TB strategy. However, global TB incidence rate continues to grow by 1% annually.
Also, despite the availability of affordable and effective treatment, the annual toll of about 9 million new TB cases and annual figure of nearly 2 million TB deaths (5000 TB death/day) worldwide represents an intolerable burden of human suffering and an unacceptable barrier to socio-economic development.
Countries with High Incidence cases
It is very important for us to be aware that TB cases are prevalent in sub-Saharan African countries. According to the World Health Organizations, countries with high population have higher TB cases in which China, Pakistan and Nigeria are the top three among the 22 high burden nations with an estimated case incidence of 300,000 – 380,000 cases per year. However, the other two countries have recorded a drastic reduction in new cases, but sub-saharan african countries are not improving at all and has recorded an over bearing multiplier effect on our economic, social and health infrastructure.
I’m I at risks of developing TB?
The following people have a greater chance of becoming ill with TB if exposed to it:
People who are HIV positive
Those in very close contact with infectious patients/clients
Children
Elderly/Age
Diabetic patients
People on drugs which could lower the body immunity
People living in over-crowded area
People living in poor sanitary environment
People who are dependent on drugs, alcohol or other substances
People with chronic poor health
However, it is worthy to take note that anyone can be infected. In fact, it is possible that you are already infected with a phase of TB called the “latent TB” (a case where the TB bacilli become dormant in the body for a very long time). In this case, you are not going to fall sick or experience any symptoms of the illness. But, immediately the health of the victim is compromised, the patient falls sick and becomes an active TB patient.
What can we do to stop this disease?
Let’s join hands together and say “I am stopping TB”; a statement of belief, hope and commitment to hard work. Hard work fired by concern and enthusiasm from all stakeholders around the world. Who are these stakeholders? YOU and I, each individual ranging from all works of life, even the peasant farmer in the far remote villages, elites in bustling cities, civil servants, NGOs, and the Government. Everyone from the north, south, east and west are enrolled in the partnership to stop TB.
What can I do as an Individual?
GET TESTED for TB if….
You have HIV infection or any condition that puts you at higher risk For TB diseases as listed above
You have been coughing for 2 or more weeks
You live in farm camps, prisons, remand or displaced settlements.
You have spent a considerable time with a TB patient
You are experiencing symptoms of TB such as coughing for 2 weeks or more, night sweat, loss of weight etc
You have been previously treated for TB and now experiencing these symptoms
Measures to prevent TB transmission
Be an advocate and help identify TB suspects/patients to get full treatment
Ensure children are well immunized against all immunisable diseases
Avoid over-crowding and ensure good ventilation
Avoid indiscriminate spitting and hacking
Eat balance diet
Avoid excessive alcohol, cigarette and other hazardous substances.
Practice good environmental hygiene
REFERENCES
Tuberculosis facts https://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=26602#tuberculosis_tb_facts
Tuberculosis: Causes and spread https://www.news-medical.net/health/What-is-Tuberculosis.aspx
Wanted: Leaders for a TB-Free United States. We can make history. End TB. https://www.cdc.gov/tb/worldtbday/history.htm
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