Why Tuberculosis Is Still a Major Health Threat

Although overshadowed by recent pandemics like HIV/AIDS and Ebola, tuberculosis or TB remains one of the world's deadliest infectious diseases, leading to more than a million deaths each year. Even in the U.S., thousands of people are diagnosed with TB each year, and health care officials keep a close watch on reports of the disease to prevent any epidemic.

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According to data from the World Health Organization, more than 9 million people acquired the disease in 2013, with 1.5 million people succumbing to it. Ninety-five percent of these deaths occur in poor or developing nations. The problem with TB is that its active version is both expensive and difficult to treat, with new variants resistant to existing antibiotics emerging.

Tuberculosis is caused by bacteria and typically spreads through tiny droplets released into the air by the coughs and sneezes of those infected. Health officials estimate that about a third of the world's population has an inactive version of the illness. However, 90% of people with latent tuberculosis will never develop the disease’s active version.

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Educating the public about the risk of TB and its signs and symptoms is invaluable in stopping it from spreading. Medical officials emphasize the importance of regular training and preparation to help combat this threat. Hygiene and infection-prevention methods are key, and health care workers who are likewise at risk of contracting TB undergo periodic training with live demonstrations and education videos.

Captain Martin Lloyd Sanders, Ph.D. has more than 12 years of experience in the field of occupational safety and health. For more information on his professional work and affiliations, go to this website.