This article provides an overview of TB prevention strategies and how to implement them.
Fortunately, there are several prevention measures available.
It can spread whenever an infected person coughs, speaks, sneezes, or sings.
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TB is not spread through shaking hands, hugging, or sharing a bathroom.
Once you breathe in TB bacteria, it can settle into your lungs and spread from there.
TB spreads quickly in homes, hospitals, and close living quarters like dorms or hostels.
Vaccination in Children and Adults
TheBacille Calmette-Guerin(BCG) vaccine protects against TB.
The BCG vaccine is commonly given to infants and children in countries with high rates of TB infections.
In the United States, it is given to certain healthcare workers.
The BCG vaccine is alive vaccineand is not safe for those who areimmunocompromised.
However, it is not as effective at protecting against lung TB infections.
Immune Health
People with compromised immune systems are most at risk of becoming ill from TB.
This includes those with HIV or any condition that affects the immune system.
Having a healthy immune system is an important part of being able to fight off a TB infection.
At-Home Quarantine
Individuals with active TB must quarantine at home to keep the disease from spreading.
TB can spread through a community quickly.
It is essential to stop the spread by strictly following quarantine recommendations.
The U.S. government requires those with infectious TB to isolate per quarantine law.
Medication
TB is a curable disease.
The length of treatment depends on which drugs are used and why.
People with drug-resistant TB require a longer treatment course.
Screening for latent TB is recommended for anyone at greater risk of exposure to TB.
If you believe you have been exposed to TB, see your healthcare provider immediately.
People who have received the BCG vaccine in the past will also have a positive skin test.
Only people with active TB can spread the disease to others.
After exposure to TB, it is possible to become sick either immediately or months later.
People with latent TB have the infection but cannot spread it to others.
Latent TB does not cause any physical symptoms.
Latent TB can turn into an active disease in the future.
This is more likely to occur in those who are immunocompromised.
Before your trip, they may suggest a TB skin test.
When you return from your trip, repeat the skin test eight to 10 weeks after getting home.
Ask if the organization provides personal protective equipment (PPE) such as N95 masks.
Healthcare providers should be tested for TB regularly and have access to PPE when needed.
TB is an airborne disease, and healthcare workers require an N95 mask to protect themselves.
Hygiene
Simple hygiene measures can help prevent the spread of TB.
Used tissues must be disposed of right away.
Handwashing is important for individuals with TB and anyone who comes in close contact with them.
Summary
TB is a serious and potentially fatal disease spread through the air.
Fortunately, there are ways to prevent the spread of disease.
Proven prevention methods include vaccination, testing, early diagnosis, quarantine, and medication treatment.
Immune health and hygiene are also important ways to stop the spread.
TB is curable and even preventable with all the tools available today.
The BCG vaccine is 70% to 80% effective at protecting against the most severe forms of TB.
However, it is not as effective at protecting against lung TB infection.
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