Tuberculosis (TB) cases have skyrocketed to 1,604 in five years in the United States. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has released a report showing a 2.3% increase in TB cases in the country from 2014 to 2018.

This is the highest number of cases recorded since 1992.

What is TB?

TB is a bacterial infection that spreads through microscopic droplets when a person with active TB coughs, speaks, or sneezes. It primarily affects the lungs but can also affect other parts of the body such as the kidneys, spine, and brain.

Why are TB cases increasing?

The increase in TB cases can be attributed to several factors. Firstly, the rise in international travel leads to an increase in TB cases being imported into the US.

Secondly, the increase in healthcare access has increased TB testing, leading to more cases being identified. Lastly, the rise of drug-resistant TB has made treatment more difficult and prolonged, leading to an increase in cases.

Who is at risk?

Anyone can contract TB, but those with weak immune systems and those who work or live in crowded conditions are more at risk. People with HIV/AIDS, diabetes, and cancer, as well as those who are malnourished, are also at higher risk of contracting TB.

What are the symptoms of TB?

The symptoms of TB include coughing, fever, night sweats, fatigue, weight loss, and chest pain. These symptoms may be mild for a while, and sometimes people may not show any symptoms for several months.

How is TB treated?

TB is treated with several antibiotics over a period of six to nine months. Patients must take their medication as prescribed and complete their entire course of treatment to ensure the full elimination of the infection.

How can TB be prevented?

TB can be prevented by vaccination, regular testing, and practising good hygiene. Those who have been in close contact with someone who has TB should be tested to prevent further spread of the disease.

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Public health campaigns and community engagement can also help to raise awareness and reduce the stigma associated with TB.

The Impact of TB

The impact of TB on individuals and communities is significant. The disease can be life-threatening if left untreated and can cause significant economic and social burden.

Those with active TB may need to take time off work or school, leading to a loss of income. The high cost of treatment can also be a financial burden for patients and their families.

The Way Forward

To address the rising TB cases in the US, it is essential to invest in prevention, testing, and treatment. There needs to be an increased focus on prevention programmes, particularly in communities at high risk of TB.

Healthcare providers also need to be trained to identify and manage TB cases effectively.

Public awareness campaigns can also help to reduce stigma and encourage individuals to seek testing and treatment. Additionally, more investment is needed to develop effective vaccines and treatments for drug-resistant TB.

Conclusion

The rise in TB cases in the US is a cause for concern and highlights the need for increased public health interventions and investment in research and development.

Through collaboration and targeted efforts, we can prevent and eliminate TB as a public health threat.