March 24th is World Tuberculosis Day. The disease, which was in the process of being controlled, had its number of deaths increased due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

Tuberculosis is caused by a bacterium that most often affects the lungs and its form of transmission is through the air, through the coughing, talking, spitting and sneezing of infected people.

Only 10% of people develop the active form of the disease and symptoms include a persistent cough, which may have blood or discharge, fever, night sweats, weight loss, chest pains, and fatigue.

According to the global report released by the World Health Organization (WHO), in 2021, more people died from the disease and fewer people were diagnosed and treated in 2020, compared to 2019. This was due to the transfer of resources to combat Covid-19 and to the lockdown, which prevented people from seeking assistance.

The diagnosis of tuberculosis is made by bacteriological and imaging tests, such as chest radiography. The disease is treatable and curable – about 85% of people can be successfully treated. The treatment lasts at least 6 months and is carried out with antibiotics.

Pay attention to the signs and seek professional help!

Sources: Doctors Without Borders, Brazil’s Ministry of Health and Pan American Health Organization