Tuberculosis can happen to anyone. So it is best to know TB prevention strategies to protect ourselves and our loved ones.
In the year 2010, tuberculosis was identified as one of the leading causes of death in the Philippines. By 2017, the disease claimed 1.6 million lives. Of this number, 25,000 people were Filipinos.
Despite the fact that TB is contagious, it is difficult to contract. Yes, it can be spread from person to person, however this is mainly due to close contact.
For instance, those who live closely in one household are more at risk.
Tuberculosis is curable and TB prevention strategies can be simple.
Mycobacterium tuberculosis or simply, tuberculosis, is a serious disease where a bacteria attacks the lungs of a human being.
If an infected person is not able to treat the disease, the bacteria could spread to other parts of the body.
Tuberculosis is endemic in the Philippines. As it is more prevalent in the more crowded, enclosed environments of the country such as the cities, it is common for Filipinos to know someone who has had the disease.
These days, there have been efforts to inform the people about the disease and how one can prevent it, as well as public and private efforts to provide the general populace with medicines to cure this disease.
While much progress has been made to combat the bacteria, it shows no signs of stopping, maintaining a consistent number of infected as the population grows throughout the years.
Despite the fact that tuberculosis is one of the leading causes of death in the Philippines, TB prevention is possible.
5 TB Prevention Strategies to Follow
Be Aware
One of the best TB prevention strategies is to be knowledgeable about the disease.
Do your research about tuberculosis – what it is, its signs and symptoms, how it can be prevented, and how it can be cured. Through your knowledge you can help in preventing the spread of disease.
Have Regular Check-ups especially if you have been exposed to someone with TB
Going to your doctor regularly will not only help to identify if you are infected by tuberculosis, but it will also help you know how healthy (or not) you are in general.
Strengthen Your Immune System
You should strengthen your immune system so that your body can fight against not only tuberculosis but also other deadly diseases. When you take care of your body, you are building a strong resistance against germs, viruses, and bacteria that might infect your body.
But how does a person build a strong immune system? Simple.
- Make sure to have a healthy and balanced diet and supply your body with go, grow, and glow foods.
- Try your best to maintain good sleeping habits by sleeping for at least 8 hours every day. Sleep is key to strong immunity because it is the only time your body is able to repair your cells.
- Find time to exercise. In this case, exercise does not only mean going to the gym, it means that you should keep yourself active and practice doing basic physical activities like walking.
Practice Respiratory Hygiene and Etiquette
The fourth tuberculosis prevention tip is knowing the proper etiquette when coughing and sneezing. While coughing and sneezing is unavoidable, it’s important to practice respiratory hygiene.
When you are about to cough, make sure to grab a cloth or a tissue to cover your mouth. This can help to prevent the virus or bacteria in the droplets from spreading. Another tip advised by medical experts is to cover your mouth with your forearm and cough into the crook of your elbow.
When sneezing, always remember to cover your nose as well. If you notice liquid discharge, make sure to throw the cloth or tissue you used away, so that the bacteria or virus would not be able to spread.
Practice proper hand washing as well.
When you feel sick, consult a doctor immediately and wear a mask, if necessary.
Vaccinate Newborns
With the help of technology and the efforts of medical professionals, a vaccine that makes babies immune from tuberculosis was created during the 1920s.
The name of the virus is Bacillus Calmette-Guerin or BCG. In countries where the infection rate for tuberculosis is high, babies are required , in their first months to take this vaccine.
Key Takeaways
It is never too late to take a step in helping the world fight against tuberculosis. And it all starts in our very own homes.
Learn more about tuberculosis, here.
