Understanding Tuberculosis

What Is Tuberculosis (TB)

Tuberculosis (TB) is an airborne bacterial infection caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis¹. This microorganism primarily affects the lungs and moves through the blood to other parts of the body, such as the brain, spine and kidneys². According to the Global Tuberculosis Report 2020, it was estimated that 10 million people contracted tuberculosis (TB)³.
TB can be divided into latent TB infection and active TB disease. Those with latent TB infection are often asymptomatic and may not infect others as the bacteria remain inactive in the body². Individuals with latent TB infection should seek treatment to prevent progression into active TB disease⁴. An individual with an active TB disease, on the other hand, would present with multiple symptoms (see below) and is in a contagious state²⸴⁵.

Symptoms Of Tuberculosis In The Lungs

When an individual with TB of the lungs coughs, sneezes, or spits, TB bacteria are dispersed into the air⁶. Those who are nearby may potentially inhale the bacteria and become infected. Therefore, tuberculosis is transmitted from one person to another on an airborne basis⁵.

People with TB can experience the following symptoms⁵⸴⁶:

• A bad cough that lasts 3 weeks or longer
• Pain in the chest
• Coughing up blood or sputum (phlegm from deep inside the lungs)
• Unexplained weight loss
• Loss of appetite
• Fatigue or weakness
• Fever
• Night sweats

Who Is At Risk Of Tuberculosis?

An individual with the following risk factors may be at risk of tuberculosis⁵⸴⁷:

• A weakened immune system (i.e. HIV infection, diabetes mellitus, kidney disease)
• A recent TB infection (i.e. close contacts of a person with infectious TB disease, children less than 5 years old)
• Frequent smokers
• Excessive intake of alcohol

Ways to Reduce the Spread of Tuberculosis

To reduce the risk of spreading Tuberculosis, here are several steps you can take.

Firstly, if you have tuberculosis, avoid close contact and separate yourself from others until told otherwise by your healthcare provider. Sleep in a separate room from family members and ensure that your room is aired to the outside of the building whilst also maintaining proper ventilation⁶.

Next, practice good hygiene. Wear a mask, cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing, followed by proper disposal of used tissues⁸. You should also ensure that your hands are washed often and thoroughly⁹.

Lastly, if you think you have been exposed to someone who has active tuberculosis or have symptoms such as prolonged cough, fever and night sweats, contact your healthcare provider for the next course of action⁸.

Vaccination For Tuberculosis 

The Bacille Calmette-Guérin (BCG) vaccine is the tuberculosis vaccine for TB disease. In Malaysia, BCG vaccines are often given to newborns¹⁰. The BCG vaccine injection is given at the upper arm and indicated by having a scar after the injection. Immunity will develop after the injection and helps protect the child from serious TB disease¹¹.

Conclusion

In short, tuberculosis is a major public health concern as it has affected many lives globally. It is preventable and treatable with appropriate management. If you are experiencing any of the aforementioned symptoms, you may visit nearby clinics for diagnostic tests. For more information, you may also approach our Pharmacists and ask for advice.