The Knowledge Board:
Tuberculosis
Tuberculosis (TB) is an airborne bacterial infectious disease which usually attacks the lungs, but can also spread to other organs and parts of the body. It is passed from person to person by inhaling tiny droplets of saliva expelled through coughing, sneezing or talking to a person infected with tuberculosis. It is less contagious than a cold or influenza as repeated contact with the TB sufferer is required. It cannot be spread by sharing objects such as toothbrushes and spoons.
Once the tuberculosis bacteria reach the alveoli (tiny chambers in the lungs) they are fought by other cells called macrophage. In some cases they can be transmitted to the lymph system and bloodstream before going on to infect other organs. Therefore, it is very important to receive an early diagnosis and immediate treatment. Moreover, patients with tuberculosis only remain infectious for about two weeks if they receive an appropriate treatment.
It has been calculated that about a third of the world population has been infected with tuberculosis. However, only small quantities of people who come into contact with tuberculosis go on to develop the symptoms of the disease. In most cases the bacteria remain latent in the immune system.
These are:
• Geographic origin -being born or have resided for a long time in regions with high rate of tuberculosis, such as south-east Asia, Africa, Latin America and the former Soviet Union
.
• Age -elderly people are more at risk because of their lowered immune system
• Acquired lowered immune system - having a disease that suppresses immunity such as HIV/AIDS or diabetes, or receiving treatments with corticosteroids, immune-suppressants and chemotherapy drugs
• Living in an over-crowded environment, such as a prison, a refugee camp or a shelter
• Substance abuse (drugs and alcohol)
• Malnutrition
• Prolonged contact with someone infected with tuberculosis
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