Definition of TB (Tuberculosis) – Tuberculosis (TBC) or TB is a contagious disease caused by bacterial infection. TB generally attacks the lungs, but can also attack other body organs, such as the kidneys, spine, and brain.
According to the WHO, as many as 1.5 million people died from TB disease in 2020. This disease is the 13th leading cause of death, and is the second deadliest infectious disease after COVID-19
Indonesia is the 3rd country with the highest TB cases in the world after India and China. Data from 2019 shows that there are around 845,000 TB sufferers in Indonesia.
This disease can be fatal for the sufferer if not treated immediately. Even so, TB is a curable and preventable disease.
Transmission and Symptoms of Tuberculosis (TB)
Tuberculosis (TB) transmission occurs when a person accidentally inhales saliva splashes ( droplets ) when a person infected with TB sneezes or coughs.
Because of this, the risk of transmission of lung disease caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis bacteria is higher in people who live in the same household with TB sufferers.
TB in the lungs will cause symptoms in the form of coughing for more than 3 weeks which can be accompanied by sputum or blood . In addition, sufferers will also experience other symptoms, such as fever, chest pain and sweating at night .
Treatment and Prevention of Tuberculosis (TB)
TB treatment is by taking medicine according to the dosage and recommendation from the doctor. Types of drugs prescribed to overcome TB include rifampicin and ethambutol
TB can be prevented with the BCG vaccine . Giving this vaccine is recommended before the baby is 2 months old. Prevention can also be done by avoiding contact with sick people and wearing a mask when in public places.
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