Tuberculosis

Question 1

Cause

Answer 1

Mycobacterium tuberculosis

Question 2

Distribution

Answer 2

About half of all people with TB can be found in 8 countries: Bangladesh, China, India, Indonesia, Nigeria, Pakistan, Philippines and South Africa.

Question 3

Transmission

Answer 3

TB is spread through the air in water molecules when people with lung TB cough, sneeze or spit - it can survive here for a few hours.

Question 4

Life cycle

Answer 4

Bacteria infects the lungs and reproduces in the alveoli through binary fission, then immune cells called macrophages go to infection site to try absorb and break down the invaders, however sometimes it’s not strong enough - meaning the TB will reproduce inside the macrophages and form colonies in the lung tissues. Bacteria creates cell-degrading enzymes destroying this lung tissue. They can also spread to the skeletal system, through the blood.

However, in 90% of cases it lays dormant with no effect until immune system is weakened (latent TB)

Question 5

Impact on host

Answer 5

• a bad cough that lasts 3 *weeks or longer
• pain in the chest
• coughing up blood
• weakness or fatigue
• weight loss
• no appetite
• chills
• Fever
• Ashen appearance
• sweating at night

Question 6

Treatment

Answer 6

• Antibiotics - at least 6 months.
• Three most common
  medications = Soniazid, Rifampin, and Rifabutin.

Question 7

Prevention/control

Answer 7

• BCG vaccine (created in 1921)
• Always cover your mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Seal the tissue in a plastic bag, then throw it away.
• Wash your hands after coughing or sneezing.
• Don’t visit other people and don’t invite them to visit you.
• Taking medicines to increase immune system.