Tuberculosis By: Laney Thompson
WHAT IS IT?
Tuberculosis is a disease caused by a bacterium called Mycobacterium tuberculosis.
CAUSES:
Tuberculosis is caused by a bacteria that spreads from person to person through microscopic droplets released into the air.
SIGNS/SYMPTOMS:
- Coughing that lasts three or more weeks
- Coughing up blood
- Chest pain, or pain with breathing or coughing
- Unintentional weight loss
- Fatigue
- Fever
- Night sweats
- Chills
- Loss of appetite
TREATMENT:
Doctors prescribe an antibiotic that kills the TB bacteria, Takes much longer to treat than other types of bacterial infections, Take antibiotics for at least six to nine months
PREVENTION:
- Use protective measures, such as face masks, if you work in a facility that cares for people who have untreated TB.
- If you live with someone who has active TB, help and encourage the person to follow treatment instructions.
DO not spend long periods of time in stuffy, enclosed rooms with anyone who has been active TB until that person has been treated for at least 2 weeks