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When it comes to TB, many misconceptions remain. Tuberculosis is not a disease that "only affects HIV-infected people and the poor". Anyone can get it!
TB a contagious, infectious disease that's passed from person to person through the air. It usually affects the lungs, but can also affect other parts of the body.
It is true that you have an increased risk if you have diabetes, are HIV-positive or work in high-risk areas such as prisons and hospitals. However, if you are a smoker, alcoholic, intravenous drug user or are malnourished, you're chances of developing tuberculosis - should you come into contact with the TB germ - are also increased, as your immune system is compromised.
Learn to recognise the symptoms of TB: chronic cough, fatigue, decreased appetite, weight loss, night sweats and coughing up blood. If you experience any of these symptoms, please see your doctor at once.
TB a contagious, infectious disease that's passed from person to person through the air. It usually affects the lungs, but can also affect other parts of the body.
It is true that you have an increased risk if you have diabetes, are HIV-positive or work in high-risk areas such as prisons and hospitals. However, if you are a smoker, alcoholic, intravenous drug user or are malnourished, you're chances of developing tuberculosis - should you come into contact with the TB germ - are also increased, as your immune system is compromised.
Learn to recognise the symptoms of TB: chronic cough, fatigue, decreased appetite, weight loss, night sweats and coughing up blood. If you experience any of these symptoms, please see your doctor at once.
World TB Day – Why SA still can’t shake the disease
(Photo of woman coughing from Shutterstock)
