World Tuberculosis (TB) Day is observed annually on March 24 to raise awareness of the disease and the fight to eradicate it. It honors the day in 1882 that Dr. Robert Koch identified the Mycobacterium tuberculosis bacteria, which causes tuberculosis. Tuberculosis (TB) is a disease that is carried by the air and primarily affects the lungs, though it can also affect other organs.
A extremely contagious airborne illness that mostly affects the lungs is tuberculosis (TB). Bacteria are released into the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or even speaks. A few lifestyle modifications can drastically lower the chance of TB infection, even though medical treatment is still necessary.
Tips to Reduce Your Risk of Tuberculosis
1. Get vaccinated with the BCG vaccine
The best defense against severe types of tuberculosis, especially in youngsters, is the BCG vaccine. It lowers the risk of developing active TB by assisting the immune system in identifying and combating the TB germs.
2. Boost indoor ventilation
When an infected person coughs, sneezes, or speaks, TB is transferred through the air. The danger of infection is increased in areas with inadequate ventilation. Exposure to TB bacteria can be considerably decreased by maintaining adequate ventilation by keeping windows open, utilizing exhaust fans, and avoiding crowded, enclosed spaces.
3. Keep your immunity strong by eating a balanced diet
A diet high in nutrients supports the immune system’s defenses against illnesses, including tuberculosis. To maintain a robust immune system, eat foods high in zinc (nuts, seeds), vitamin C (citrus fruits), vitamin D (sunlight, fish, eggs), and protein (lean meats, legumes). Individuals with compromised immune systems, such as those suffering from diabetes or malnourishment, are more susceptible to tuberculosis.
4. Maintain proper respiratory hygiene
When you cough or sneeze, cover your mouth and nose with a mask, tissue, or elbow. This stops the TB bacterium from spreading. Using N95 masks can offer extra protection against airborne transmission if you work in healthcare settings or interact with TB patients.
5. Avoid close contact with TB-infected individuals
Particularly in enclosed environments, tuberculosis is extremely contagious. Make sure someone with active tuberculosis receives the right care and abides by medical advice if you live with them or are around them. Frequent medical examinations and screenings aid in the early detection of tuberculosis, thereby halting its spread.
Takeaway
Treating latent TB infections and avoiding close contact with individuals who have current TB disease are two ways to prevent TB.
When a person with an active illness speaks, coughs, or coughs, TB is transferred through the air. The majority of individuals exposed to TB bacteria never get TB disease. Individuals with weakened immune systems, such as those infected with HIV, are more susceptible to tuberculosis.
