Tuberculosis

Tuberculosis (TB) is a major infectious disease of public health importance caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It primarily affects the lungs (pulmonary TB) but can also involve other organs such as the brain, bones, and kidneys. TB spreads through the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks, making it highly transmissible in crowded and poorly ventilated settings. It is closely associated with poverty, malnutrition, overcrowding, and weakened immunity, particularly among people living with HIV. From a public health perspective, TB poses challenges due to delayed diagnosis, long treatment duration, poor treatment adherence, and the emergence of drug-resistant TB strains. Effective control strategies include early case detection, standardized multi-drug treatment, vaccination, contact tracing, and patient support systems. Strengthening healthcare infrastructure, ensuring uninterrupted drug supply, and addressing social determinants of health are essential for reducing TB transmission and achieving long-term elimination goals.