PULMONARY TUBERCULOSIS

Tuberculosis is the name given to illness caused by infection with the tuber bacillus. It caused by a bacteria called mycobacterium. Tuberculosis is spread from person to person. It has two types :

1-Tubercle bacillus

2-Bovine tuberculosis

Tubercle bacillus occurs in human but bovine tuberculosis occurs in cattle. Tuberculosis spread in human by drinking the milk of infected cattle. Tuberculosis can affect many parts of the body. But it mainly effects on lungs. Tuberculosis can also affect the glands, the meninges, the bones, the kidneys, and the joints.

This disease was spread in the last century. It was a prominent cause of death in children and young adults. There are many reasons why it is now comparatively uncommon in developed countries.

1-Tuberculosis thrives when there is dirt, overcrowding and malnutrition.

2-Tuberculosis used to effect cows and this led to milk infected with bovine tuberculosis.

3-It may be common in certain immigrant groups or those living in lodging houses.

4-In those who are most exposed to the disease such as nurses and hospital workers.

5-Those likely to spread the ailment such school teachers or waiters.

TO PROTECT FROM TUBERCULOSIS (TB)

1-Better sanitation and a better standard of living have contributed greatly to overcome the spread of tuberculosis.

2-Pasteurization of milk provides an additional safeguard against tuberculosis.

3-Immunization by BCG vaccine protects against tuberculosis.

4-Effective chemotherapy is available for patients who have suffer from pulmonary tuberculosis.