'%20x='0'%20y='0'%20height='100%25'%20width='100%25'%20%0A%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20xlink%3Ahref='data:image/jpg;base64,/9j/4AAQSkZJRgABAQAAAQABAAD/2wCEAAMDAwMDAwQEBAQFBQUFBQcHBgYHBwsICQgJCAsRCwwLCwwLEQ8SDw4PEg8bFRMTFRsfGhkaHyYiIiYwLTA+PlQBAwMDAwMDBAQEBAUFBQUFBwcGBgcHCwgJCAkICxELDAsLDAsRDxIPDg8SDxsVExMVGx8aGRofJiIiJjAtMD4+VP/AABEIAAYACgMBIgACEQEDEQH/xABgAAEBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABQcQAAEEAgMBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAECAwQRAAUGFDIhAQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEBhEAAgIBBQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQIDEQAEBRIiMf/aAAwDAQACEQMRAD8AxvUb2Avh0eDr4fVd7C3ZDqQgFxvwhN0T8Is3llE2KlCQYrVgAeLxjA7hp4WPZAakfLRZ5YkHBquvAM//2Q=='%3E%3C/image%3E%3C/svg%3E)
Tuberculosis (TB) is a highly contagious bacterial infection that can affect the lungs and other parts of the body.
It can be transmitted through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Fortunately, there are several steps you can take to prevent TB infection. In this article, we will discuss a few effective ways to keep the disease at bay.
How to keep TB at bay
Here are five ways:
#1 Protect Yourself with Vaccination
The BCG vaccine is a highly effective way to prevent TB infection, particularly in children.
The vaccine is widely available and is recommended for people who are at high risk of developing TB. According to the World Health Organization, the BCG vaccine reduces risk of developing TB by 50% and of severe forms of the disease by 75%.
#2 Boost Your Immune System
Maintaining a healthy immune system can help prevent TB infection. Have a balanced diet rich in nutrients; stay hydrated, and get regular exercise and adequate sleep to keep your immunity high.
Additionally, consuming foods rich in vitamin C, vitamin D, and zinc can help boost the immune system and reduce risk of TB infection.
#3 Practice Good Hygiene
Practicing good hygiene can help prevent TB infection. Wash your hands frequently with soap and water; cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze, and avoid close contact with people who are sick.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), washing your hands for at least 20 seconds with soap and water can reduce risk of TB transmission.
#4 Adhere to Medication
If you have been diagnosed with TB, it's important to take your medication as prescribed by your doctor.
Completing the full course of medication is essential to prevent development of drug-resistant TB and reduce risk of transmitting the infection to others. According to WHO, non-adherence to TB medication is a major cause of treatment failure and drug resistance.
#5 Consult the Right Specialist
If you have symptoms of TB or have been in close contact with someone who has the disease, it's important to consult the right specialist.
A doctor who specializes in infectious diseases can help diagnose and treat TB infection and provide guidance on how to prevent the spread of the infection. Additionally, health workers and community health volunteers can play an important role in identifying and referring people with TB for diagnosis and treatment.
Tubercolosis is a serious and potentially life-threatening disease, but it can be prevented with the right steps.
By getting vaccinated, maintaining good hygiene, boosting your immune system, adhering to medication, and consulting the right specialist, you can keep it at bay and protect your health. It's important to remember that TB is a treatable and curable disease, so early diagnosis and treatment can prevent its spread and save lives.
