What is Tuberculosis? | preventing TB |

What is Tuberculosis?

 Tuberculosis commonly known as TB is a contagious bacterial infection . TB is the world's largest infectious killer however and it's completely treatable curable and preventable TB is caused by the bacteria Mycobacterium tuberculosis which can typically be eradicated after several rounds of antibiotics Mycobacterium tuberculosis usually attacks the lungs but it can spread to other parts of the body 

such as 

the bones , kidneys and even the brain symptoms of TB can vary between individuals but if you've experienced any of the following symptoms for two weeks or longer please seek immediate medical attention a persistent cough constant fatigue unexplained weight loss a loss of appetite fever coughing up blood night sweats chest pains shortness of breath stiff neck bloody urine back pain pelvic pain neck swelling or irregular menstruation

TB bacteria  spread by

TB bacteria is spread through the air it can be transmitted from person to person when someone with the TB infection of the lungs or throat coughs laughs speaks or sings typically a person has to be close with someone with TB disease for a long period of time in order to become infected TB is usually spread between family members close friends and people who work or live together

Ttuberculosis cannot be spread by 

shaking hands sharing food or drink sharing toothbrushes touching toilet seats sharing beds kissing or sexual intercourse the people on the highest risk for developing  TB-- are children people with pre-existing conditions such as diabetes or HIV people undergoing chemotherapy pregnant women and infants if you believe that you or someone you know has contracted TB please seek Quick medicinal attention