Tuberculosis

Tuberculosis
is caused by a germ called mycobacterium. Tuberculosis usually attacks the
lungs and other parts of the body including the bones, joints and brain. People
of all ages can contract tuberculosis, but the risk of developing tuberculosis
is highest in children aged three (3) years and in very old people; although
anybody can be affected.

Mode of Transmission of Tuberculosis

1.
Tuberculosis
is spread through the air when a person with the disease coughs or sneezes. The
germ enters the air.

2.
A person
inhaling air that contains tuberculosis germ may become infected.

3.
Tuberculosis
can spread rapidly when people are living in crowded condition.

4.
In some
areas it is possible to become infected by consuming unpasteurized milk (bovine
tuberculosis)

5.
It can be
spread through ill ventilated premises.

6.
Persons
with tuberculosis infection who have weakened immune system i.e. difficulty to
fight disease, for instance, people with HIV/AIDS, are more likely to develop
the disease than those with normal immune system.

Signs and Symptoms of Tuberculosis

1.
Weakness

2.
Weight
loss

3.
Fever

4.
Night
sweat

5.
Cough

In
tuberculosis of the lungs (pulmonary tuberculosis), the symptoms include:

1.
Persistent
cough

2.
Chest
pain

3.
Coughing
of blood

Prevention of Tuberculosis

1.
Avoid
unhygienic practices like spitting in public places.