tüberküloza

Tuberculosis, or TB, is an infectious disease usually caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb). It typically affects the lungs but can also spread to other parts of the body. The disease is spread through the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. Most people infected with TB bacteria do not become ill. This is called latent TB infection. However, if the bacteria become active and multiply, the disease is called active TB. Symptoms of active TB in the lungs include coughing up sputum and blood, fever, night sweats, and weight loss.

TB is preventable and curable. However, it remains a major global health problem. Diagnosis often involves a chest X-ray, sputum tests, and skin tests. Treatment for active TB requires a course of antibiotics for several months. The effectiveness of treatment can be hampered by drug-resistant strains of Mtb, which require longer and more complex treatment regimens. Preventive measures include vaccination (BCG vaccine), early diagnosis, and prompt treatment. Public health efforts focus on identifying and treating infected individuals to prevent further spread.