#Tuberculosis Prevention

[autumn2may]

Johnson & Johnson is currently, like right this minute, trying to extend their patent on the TB drug bedaquiline, keeping it out of generic for another four years. TB killed about 30,000 people last week and is the world's deadliest infectious disease.

If this drug does not go generic now it could affect 6 million people in the next four years (the time it would take the "new" patent to run out). Out of those millions of people who get TB, but can't get bedaquiline, most of them will die. From a PREVENTABLE DISEASE.

Why is this happening? Money. But also, because TB is not an issue in countries like the US. We can afford its $1.50 a pill price. But if you live in a poor country, that's too much money to spend on something you need to take for up to four months.

J&J needs to let this drug go public and do its job in places that can't currently afford it. They need to help people, instead of trying to wring the last few drops of money out of one of their many products, at the cost of human lives. @sizzlingsandwichperfection-blog does a waaaay better job of explaining this than me. Check out the video and the video description for links and ways to help!

[thegollux]

these two responses were incredible and detailed but i’d like to add on one more:

please think, for even 15 seconds, exactly who would bear the burden of being our test cases

the cognitive dissonance from people who want the products of modern medicine but get weird about animal research. like im sorry but this is necessary for the survival of the society we currently live in. and the scientists who work on these things are not evil cackling psychopaths. anyone you talk to in animal research has incredibly complex feelings about their work and incredibly complex relationships to the animals in their care. there are regulations and oversight and penalties in place to make the work as humane as possible and scientists are overwhelmingly the ones enforcing and advocating for better care.

[tiktokparrot]

Spot the signs & prevent avian tuberculosis in your parrot! Learn how to keep your feathered friend healthy and happy.

[medrechospital]

Defeating Tuberculosis: Understanding, Preventing, and Overcoming Challenges

I. Introduction

Tuberculosis, a disease caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis, has been a persistent global health issue for centuries. In this comprehensive guide, we will navigate the complex terrain of TB, exploring its origins, modes of transmission, symptoms, and, most importantly, strategies for prevention and treatment.

II. Understanding Tuberculosis

Tuberculosis Basics

At its core, TB is an infectious disease that primarily affects the lungs, but it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Understanding the basics of TB is crucial for developing effective prevention strategies.

Causes and Transmission

TB is primarily spread through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. We'll explore the conditions that make transmission more likely, such as crowded and unsanitary living conditions, and delve into the factors that make certain populations more vulnerable to infection.

High-risk Populations

Certain groups, such as individuals with compromised immune systems, those living with HIV/AIDS, and people in poverty-stricken areas, are at higher risk. Understanding why these populations are more susceptible will shed light on targeted prevention efforts.

III. Symptoms of Tuberculosis

Early Symptoms

The early symptoms of TB are often subtle and can be easily mistaken for other common ailments. A persistent cough, fatigue, weakness, and unexplained weight loss are common indicators that prompt further investigation.

Advanced Symptoms

As the disease progresses, more severe symptoms may emerge, including chest pain, coughing up blood, and excessive sweating, especially at night. Recognizing these signs is vital for early intervention and successful treatment.

IV. Diagnosis of Tuberculosis

Tuberculin Skin Test

One of the primary diagnosis for TB, the tuberculin skin test involves injecting a small amount of fluid (tuberculin) under the skin. We'll explain how this test works and its significance in identifying TB infection.

Blood Tests, Chest X-rays, and Sputum Tests

Beyond the skin test, blood tests, chest X-rays, and sputum tests play crucial roles in confirming TB diagnoses. We'll provide a detailed breakdown of each method, discussing their accuracy and how they contribute to the overall diagnostic process.

V. Treatment of Tuberculosis

Overview of TB Medications

Treatment of TB with a combination of antibiotics, and we'll provide an overview of the common medications used. Understanding the mechanism of these drugs is essential for patients to actively participate in their treatment.

Importance of Completing the Full Course of Treatment

Incomplete treatment can lead to drug-resistant strains of TB, a significant global health concern. We'll stress the importance of adhering to the prescribed treatment plan to ensure successful recovery and minimize the risk of resistance.

Potential Side Effects of TB Medications

Like any medication, TB drugs can have side effects. We'll outline these potential side effects, empowering individuals to communicate effectively with their healthcare providers and manage any challenges that may arise during treatment.

VI. Tuberculosis Prevention Strategies

Importance of Infection Control

Infection control measures, both at the individual and community levels, play a critical role in preventing TB transmission. We'll discuss practical steps individuals can take to minimize their risk of exposure.

Avoiding Close Contact with Infected Individuals

TB is highly contagious in close quarters. Strategies to avoid close contact with infected individuals, especially in high-risk settings, will be detailed to further reduce transmission risks.

Good Respiratory Hygiene Practices

Simple practices, such as covering one's mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, can significantly reduce the spread of TB. We'll emphasize the importance of good respiratory hygiene in daily life.

Importance of a Healthy Lifestyle in Preventing TB

A robust immune system is a powerful defense against TB. We'll explore how maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including proper nutrition, regular exercise, and adequate rest, contributes to overall well-being and lowers the risk of TB infection.

VII. Tuberculosis Vaccination

Overview of the BCG Vaccine

The Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) vaccine is a key tool in TB prevention. We'll provide an in-depth look at the development and mechanism of the BCG vaccine, offering insights into its effectiveness in different populations.

Effectiveness of the BCG Vaccine

While the BCG vaccine is widely used, its effectiveness varies. We'll explore the factors influencing its efficacy and discuss its role in global TB prevention efforts.

Who Should Get the BCG Vaccine?

The recommendation for BCG vaccination varies by country and population. We'll outline the groups for whom the vaccine is particularly beneficial and discuss the considerations behind vaccination decisions.

VIII. Challenges in Tuberculosis Prevention

Drug-resistant TB

The emergence of drug-resistant TB poses a significant threat to global health. We'll delve into the factors contributing to drug resistance and explore ongoing efforts to combat this challenge.

Social and Economic Factors Contributing to TB Spread

TB disproportionately affects marginalized populations. We'll discuss the social and economic factors that contribute to the spread of TB and explore initiatives aimed at addressing these underlying issues.

Global Efforts to Combat TB

International collaboration is essential in the fight against TB. We'll highlight global initiatives, partnerships, and research efforts that aim to eradicate TB and improve outcomes for those affected.

IX. Conclusion

In conclusion, this comprehensive guide has provided an in-depth exploration of tuberculosis, covering its origins, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention strategies. As we recap the key points, the overarching emphasis remains on prevention as a powerful tool in the battle against TB.

X. Additional Resources

For those seeking more information, we've compiled a list of reputable organizations dedicated to tuberculosis prevention. Additionally, a curated selection of further reading and references is provided for readers interested in a deeper exploration of this critical health issue.

Armed with knowledge and a commitment to proactive measures, individuals and communities can contribute to a TB-free future. It's not just about understanding and treating TB; it's about collectively working towards eradicating this ancient disease from our modern world.

[harmeet-saggi]

https://www.secondmedic.com/blogs/tackling-tuberculosis-a-government-campaign-for-a-tuberculosis-free-nation

[playingplayer2]

Simply put: wear a goddamn mask or I'm coming for your kneecaps <3

this moderna commercial just went "the pandemic may be over, but covid 19 isnt going anywhere. covid is still among the top 5 leading causes of death"... wow... its almost like the pandemic isnt over.

[ecomehdi]

Tuberculosis : The Role of Cord-Like Bacterial Aggregates in Tuberculosis 2024

Have you ever wondered how tuberculosis, a respiratory tract infection, takes root in our bodies? The answer lies in the fascinating world of bacteria and their unique behavior. In this article, we’ll delve into the intriguing phenomenon of cord-like bacterial aggregates and their role in causing tuberculosis infections. Don’t worry, we’ll keep it simple, steering clear of complex terms and…

[huchamabacha]

Barely Contained Rage: An Open Letter to Johnson & Johnson

[genderkoolaid]

Renowned LGBTQI+ advocate Apako Williams has been elected as a board member of the Uganda Country Coordinating Mechanism of the Global Fund, a worldwide partnership to fight HIV, tuberculosis, and malaria. [...] Apako will serve as the representative of “Key Populations” on the board. Key Populations refer to marginalised communities disproportionately affected by diseases such as HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, and malaria, including transgender individuals, sex workers, men who have sex with men, and people who inject drugs. Apako is a transman, meaning a person who despite being identified as female at birth, identifies as a man.

Very cool to see!!! Especially since trans men&mascs have been extremely underserved in HIV prevention and care (as well as healthcare in general).

[sangsha2021]

Learn About the Latest in Tuberculosis Prevention and Control

Uncover the secrets to Tuberculosis prevention and control. Learn how to protect yourself and others from this deadly disease with our expert tips and tricks.

URL:  https://www.saarthilungclinic.com/tuberculosis-prevention/

[merriclo]

OKAY SO RABIES IS A virus transmitted by bodily fluids, most often saliva and blood. while the entire chain would be susceptible to rabies, you’re right in saying that Twilight would be especially susceptible. this is primarily because as a wolf he fights with his jaws. if he bites a rabid animal or person and draws blood, then swallows, he would become infected.

it’s also likely that, as a farmer, he would be painfully aware of rabies. any warm blooded animal can fall victim to rabies (not just dogs and bats) so it’s not a reach to assume he’d know the signs and symptoms and how to deal with it. rabies is one of those viruses that man has known about for centuries. it’s also one of the few that man has always known a decent amount about, including where it came from. mad dog bites man, man goes mad, mad dog and mad man die. it’s pretty easy to follow.

anyways, twilight would probably know he’s infected, or at least be able to string it together once the symptoms surface. all of the Links would probably know, actually, considering the abundance of Keese and how many of them are from more rural areas.

the thing abt rabies is that as soon as you show symptoms, you’re as good as dead. it’s a virus that ravages the mind, destroys the brain and central nervous system. the moment you’re rabid, you’re dead. it has a near 100% mortality rate. i can’t stress enough how dangerous this thing is.

it comes in three stages: the prodromal phase, the excitation phase, and the paralytic phase. if you want to find in depth information on each phase (like many symptoms, what happens, etc.) then here’s a link to that.

what primarily happens, though, this that they get symptoms similar to the flu, they undergo personality changes, they are likely to become mad, they experience extreme difficulty moving and using their muscles, become paralyzed, and eventually die (most often due to asphyxiation from the diaphragm paralyzing and preventing breathing.)

death by rabies is horrific, and for centuries the most humane way to treat it was either suicide or a backyard murder. there were attempts to treat it before Louis Pasteur created the vaccine, but they were rudimentary and rarely worked. it wouldn’t be insane to imagine that maybe the sheikah had created a vaccine, or that the witches had a potion to cure it. hell, you could even make a loz equivalent of Louis Pasteur and put him in Hytopia!! make twilight the first ever patient under the rabies vaccine instead of that little boy who was tragically mauled.

but, again, once you show symptoms, you are dead. the “good” thing is that rabies can have a long incubation period, allowing time to prevent any damage.

so would twilight be able to survive rabies? maybe, depending on the world building in the fic. would it be fun? absolutely not!! the process of preventing rabies fucking sucks!!! and the terror that comes with an encounter with a rabid animal cannot be understated.

so uh yeah i hope that kind of helps a little bit. if you want more resources or have any questions please please please ask i love talking about this sort of thing. for some damn reason rabies and other prominent diseases and viruses throughout history are some of my favorite things to research, so if i don’t already know the answer i will be very willing to find it <3

Guys I’m not a writer but I do know writing fics take motivation but I have noticed a max or twilight angst fics which makes me very sad because twilight is such a good boy he deserves to feel a emptiness in his chest that comes closer and closer until he starts crying too and I have had a little thought come to me after I watched the new hunger games movie and it’s that Twilight could get rabies easily (maybe idk I’m not a biologist or whatever it’s called) AND I JUST WANNA KNOW WHAT WOULD HAPPEN LIKE HOW THE WHOLE CHAIN WOULD REACT BECAUSE GODAMN TWILIGHT U CAN TAKE A LOT BUT CAN U TAKE RABIES???

[sizzlingsandwichperfection-blog]

A Big TB Announcement

Greetings from Washington D.C., where I spent the morning meeting with senators before joining a panel that included TB survivor Shaka Brown, Dr. Phil LoBue of the CDC, and Dr. Atul Gawande of USAID. Dr. Gawande announced a major new project to bring truly comprehensive tuberculosis care to regions in Ethiopia and the Philippines. Over the next four years, this project can bring over $80,000,000 in new money to fight TB in these two high-burden countries.

Our family is committing an additional $1,000,000 a year to help fund the project in the Philippines, which has the fourth highest burden of tuberculosis globally.

Here’s how it breaks down: The Department of Health in the Philippines has made TB reduction a major priority and has provided $11,000,0000 per year in matching funds to go alongside $10,000,000 contributed by USAID and an additional $1,000,000 donated by us. This $22,000,000 per year will fund everything from X-Ray machines, medications, and GeneXpert tests to training and employing a huge surge of community health workers, nurses, and doctors who are calling themselves TB Warriors. In an area that includes nearly 3,000,000 people, these TB Warriors will screen for TB, identify cases, provide curative treatment, and offer preventative therapy to close contacts of the ill. We know this Search-Treat-Prevent model is the key to ending tuberculosis, but we hope this project will be both a beacon and a blueprint to show that It’s possible to radically reduce the burden of TB in communities quickly and permanently. It will also, we believe, save many, many lives.

—

I believe we can’t end TB without these kinds of public/private partnerships. After all, that’s how we ended smallpox and radically reduced the global burden of polio. It’s also how we’ve driven down death from malaria and HIV. For too long, TB hasn’t had the kind of government or private support needed to accelerate the fight against the disease, but I really hope that’s starting to change. I’m grateful to USAID for spearheading this project, and also to the Philippine Ministry of Health for showing such commitment and prioritizing TB.

—

One reason this project is even possible: Both the cost of diagnosis (through GeneXpert tests) and the cost of treatment with bedaquiline are far lower than they were a year ago, and that is due to public pressure campaigns, many of which were organized by nerdfighteria. I’m not asking you for money (yet); Hank and I will be funding this in partnership with a few people in nerdfighteria who are making major gifts. But I am asking you to continue pressuring the corporations that profit from the world’s poorest people to lower their prices. I’ve seen some of the budgets, and it’s absolutely jaw-dropping how many more tests and pills are available because of what you’ve done as a community.

—

I don’t yet have the details on which region of the Philippines we’ll be working in, but it will be an area that includes millions of people–perhaps as many as 3 million. And it will include urban, suburban, and rural areas to see the different responses needed to provide comprehensive care in different communities. This will not (to start!) be a nationwide campaign, because even though $80,000,000 is a lot of money, it’s not enough to fund comprehensive care in a nation as large as the Philippines. But we hope that it will serve as a model–to the nation, to the region, and to the world–of what’s possible. 

—

I’m really excited (and grateful) that our community gets to have a front-row seat to see the challenges and hopefully the successes of implementing comprehensive care. Just in the planning, this project has involved so many contributors–NGOs in the Philippines, global organizations like the Partners in Health community, USAID, the national Ministry of Health in the Philippines, and regional health authorities as well. There are a lot of partners here, but they’ve been working together extremely well over the last few months to plan for this project, which will start more or less immediately thanks to their incredibly hard work.

[charlesherbertlightoller]

In light of the summer surge of COVID-19 rolling round, masking protocols getting scrapped left and right, other respiratory diseases on the rise and seasonal air pollution ramping up, here's some more things that high-performance respirator masks (N95 and the like) protect against:

Influenza (including bird flu!)

Common cold

Bacterial pneumonia

Tuberculosis

Measles

Fungal spores (including valley fever!)

Dust

Airborne allergens (pollen, pet dander, dust mites, etc)

Man-made air pollution (exhaust from cars and jets, industrial emissions, etc.)

Wildfire smoke

…and much more!

While COVID-19 is undoubtably serious and masking is the best way to prevent yourself from catching it, there's many more reasons why the air might be bad to breathe, and breathing bad air is a public health risk for everyone! Additionally, certain demographics experience higher levels of exposure to airborne contaminants than others, yet they often have the least access to accurate information, personal protective gear and medical resources.

It is imperative, for stemming the spread of COVID, mitigating the effects of other airborne hazards and showing solidarity with vulnerable individuals, that we normalize masking for a variety of reasons. Do you have a cold? Wear a mask. Do you have allergies? Wear a mask. Do you live or work in an area with heavy air pollution? Wear a mask. Is there a wildfire nearby? Wear a mask. Just want to avoid getting sick when you go to the doctor's office? Wear a mask. Whenever and wherever there might be bad air, masking protects you!

It may seem like nobody cares now, but I promise you; change is possible, change is inevitable, and YOU have the agency and ability to make change for yourself, your community and the world by setting an example and spreading the word. So take charge and clear the air!

(I do not use Blaze. Please reblog this post so it gets more notes!)

[transmutationisms]

i think tiktok phrenology is forced by the platform design to become as overt and explicit as possible, which means that it doesn't really add anything any worse than what more subtle manifestations of anthropometry contain already, but is more easily recognised and objected to. worrying about the prevalence of phrenological thinking only after & because you saw it on tiktok is like worrying about the hitler particles in usamerican politicians only after & because you saw footage of a trump rally. it's like thinking you can cure tuberculosis by preventing the patient coughing up blood. the most visible symptom is not necessarily the cause

[medrechospital]

Preventing Tuberculosis: A Comprehensive Guide

Introduction

Tuberculosis (TB) is a persistent global health concern, responsible for millions of cases annually. Prevention is the cornerstone of controlling the spread of this infectious disease. This comprehensive guide is intended to equip you with the knowledge needed to prevent TB. We will explore the symptoms of TB, the process of diagnosis and treatment, and delve into lifestyle choices, environmental precautions, and the significance of vaccination in combating this ailment.

Understanding Tuberculosis Symptoms

Common symptoms of TB

TB can manifest with various symptoms, which often develop gradually. These may include:

Persistent Cough: A persistent cough that lasts for more than three weeks, often producing phlegm or blood.

Chest Pain: Pain or discomfort in the chest, which may worsen during deep breathing or coughing.

Fatigue: Unexplained and prolonged tiredness.

Fever: Low-grade fevers, especially in the late afternoon or evening.

Weight Loss: Unintended weight loss and loss of appetite.

Recognizing these symptoms of tuberculosis (TB) is vital for early intervention and preventing the further spread of the disease.

Latent vs. active TB infection

Understanding the difference between latent and active TB infection is critical:

Latent TB: In this stage, the TB bacteria are present in the body but are dormant. Individuals with latent TB do not exhibit symptoms and are not infectious to others. However, latent TB can progress to active TB if left untreated.

Active TB: This is the stage where the bacteria become active and cause illness. Individuals with active TB can spread the disease to others through coughing or sneezing.

Factors that increase the risk of TB infection

Several factors can increase the risk of TB infection. These include:

Weakened Immune Systems: Conditions such as HIV/AIDS, diabetes, and certain medications can weaken the immune system, making individuals more susceptible to TB.

Close Contact: Living or working closely with someone who has active TB can increase the risk of transmission.

Substance Abuse: Alcohol and drug abuse can weaken the immune system, making individuals more vulnerable to TB infection.

Recognizing these risk factors is essential for targeted prevention efforts.

Tuberculosis Diagnosis and Treatment

TB diagnostic methods

Early diagnosis of tuberculosis (TB) is crucial for effective treatment and control. Medical professionals use various methods to diagnose TB, including:

Tuberculin Skin Test (Mantoux Test): A skin test to check for a reaction to proteins from the TB bacteria.

Chest X-rays: To examine the lungs for signs of TB infection or disease.

Sputum Cultures: Testing a sample of sputum for the presence of TB bacteria.

These diagnostic methods help healthcare providers identify TB infections and initiate treatment promptly.

Treatment regimens and their importance

TB treatment typically involves a combination of antibiotics taken over several months. Completing the entire treatment regimen is crucial, even if symptoms improve. Inadequate treatment can lead to the emergence of drug-resistant TB strains, which are more challenging to treat.

The threat of drug-resistant TB

The emergence of drug-resistant TB strains is a growing global health concern. It often results from inadequate treatment, incomplete courses of medication, or improper use of antibiotics. Drug-resistant TB is more challenging and expensive to treat, highlighting the significance of correct diagnosis and strict adherence to treatment plans.

Lifestyle and Environmental Prevention

Strategies to reduce the risk of TB

Preventing TB infection involves several strategies:

Good Hygiene Practices: Practice proper hand hygiene, covering your mouth when coughing or sneezing, and avoiding close contact with infected individuals.

Adequate Ventilation: Ensure good ventilation in living and working spaces to reduce the concentration of TB bacteria in the air.

The role of good nutrition and exercise

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is crucial for preventing TB. Good nutrition and regular exercise help boost the immune system’s ability to fend off TB infection and its progression. A well-balanced diet rich in essential nutrients supports the body’s natural defenses.

Preventive measures for travelers

Travelers should be aware of areas with high TB prevalence and take appropriate precautions, such as:

Staying updated with vaccinations.

Practicing good hygiene and sanitation.

Following travel advisories provided by health authorities.

Taking these preventive measures can reduce the risk of TB transmission during travel.

Preventing TB Spread

How TB is transmitted

TB is primarily spread through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes, releasing TB bacteria into the surrounding air. Inhalation of these bacteria can lead to infection.

Steps to prevent TB transmission

Preventing TB transmission involves simple yet effective measures:

Cough and Sneeze Etiquette: Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing with a tissue or your elbow.

Wearing Masks: In areas with a high TB prevalence or when caring for TB patients, wearing masks can help prevent the spread of TB bacteria.

Good Ventilation: Ensure well-ventilated spaces to disperse and dilute airborne TB bacteria.

Strategies for high-risk populations

High-risk populations, such as healthcare workers and those in close contact with TB patients, should follow strict infection control practices, including wearing masks, gloves, and gowns, to minimize the risk of TB exposure.

The Role of Vaccination

Introduction to the BCG vaccine

The Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) vaccine is the primary TB vaccine. It is administered to infants in countries with a high TB prevalence to reduce the severity of TB in children. The vaccine contains a weakened form of the TB bacterium that stimulates the immune system.

Effectiveness of the BCG vaccine

The effectiveness of the BCG vaccine varies based on factors such as age and location. While the BCG vaccine may not prevent all TB infections, it remains an essential tool in reducing the severity of the disease, particularly in young children.

Vaccination recommendations and considerations

The BCG vaccine is typically recommended for:

Infants living in areas with a high prevalence of TB.

Infants born to parents with TB.

Healthcare workers at risk of occupational exposure to TB.

Before administering the vaccine, healthcare providers consider factors like age, TB prevalence, and the individual’s health status.

Global Efforts and Initiatives

Highlighting organizations working to eradicate TB

Several organizations, including the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Stop TB Partnership, are dedicated to reducing the global burden of TB. Their initiatives focus on early diagnosis, treatment, and prevention strategies.

Progress and challenges in TB prevention

Tracking global progress in TB prevention and understanding the ongoing challenges is essential. The persistence of drug-resistant TB and disparities in access to healthcare in various regions are among the challenges that need to be addressed.

Conclusion

Preventing tuberculosis is a collective effort that requires knowledge, vigilance, and a commitment to personal and community health. By understanding TB symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and vaccination, combined with lifestyle and environmental precautions, individuals can contribute to the global effort to eradicate tuberculosis. In doing so, we not only protect ourselves but also the wider community from this persistent global health threat. It is a call to action for all to play their part in ensuring a TB-free world.