Why you should protect TB infection in your society

Jul 14, 2023 - 18:38

Photo//Courtesy.

By Robert Mutasi

Tuberculosis (TB) remains a significant global health challenge, despite being a preventable and curable disease. It is crucial to protect society from its spread for several reasons.

Firstly, TB is highly contagious. It spreads through the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or even talks. In densely populated areas, one person with active TB can infect 10-15 people over a year, leading to a rapid increase in cases if not contained.

Secondly, TB has a significant impact on public health. It claims millions of lives globally each year, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. Notably, TB is a leading killer of HIV-positive people, indicating a dangerous synergy between these two health threats.

Moreso, TB strains resistant to standard treatments, known as multidrug-resistant TB (MDR-TB) and extensively drug-resistant TB (XDR-TB), are increasing. These forms of TB are more complicated and expensive to treat, often requiring long-term use of toxic drugs. If allowed to spread, these strains could lead to a catastrophic public health crisis.

Additionally, TB has substantial economic implications. It affects people during their most productive years, leading to lost productivity and income, which can push families into poverty. The treatment and prevention of TB are much less costly than the economic burden the disease imposes on society.

Lastly, it is a matter of social justice. TB disproportionately affects marginalized and vulnerable groups, including the poor, migrants, and people living with HIV. By preventing its spread, we are promoting health equity and social justice.

In conclusion, protecting society from the spread of Tuberculosis is not only a health necessity but also a moral, economic, and social imperative. It requires concerted efforts from all sectors of society, including governments, health professionals, and the general public, to ensure early detection, provide appropriate treatment, and promote preventive measures.