Tuberculosis is a disease that can strike at any age. In fact, Mexico’s healthcare system treats around 10,500 people with tuberculosis every year. Currently, there are approximately 5,000 cases of different types of tuberculosis in the country.
Symptoms to watch out for include a lasting cough, often with blood. If you experience these, it’s crucial to visit a healthcare center. The bacteria that cause tuberculosis can spread through the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or spits.
According to the National Epidemiological Surveillance System, some states have higher numbers of infected people. These include Veracruz, Nuevo León, Baja California, Sinaloa, Tamaulipas, Chiapas, Chihuahua, Sonora, Jalisco, Guerrero, and the State of Mexico.
How Tuberculosis Spreads
When someone with tuberculosis coughs, sneezes, or spits, they release droplets that can carry the bacteria. If you breathe in these droplets, you can become infected. The good news is that tuberculosis can be treated with antibiotics.
The bacteria that cause tuberculosis usually attack the lungs but can also spread to other parts of the body, like the brain, kidneys, or spine. A person with untreated tuberculosis can infect up to 15 people per year.
Treatment and Prevention
In Mexico, there’s a vaccine called BCG that helps prevent tuberculosis from damaging a newborn’s brain. It’s given to babies in their first month of life. While this vaccine doesn’t prevent tuberculosis in other parts of the body, it’s still crucial to get it.
If you’re diagnosed with tuberculosis, it’s essential to inform the National Epidemiological Surveillance System. This helps track cases and ensures you get the right treatment. People with weakened immune systems, like those with HIV or diabetes, are more at risk of getting tuberculosis.
The Risks of Untreated Tuberculosis
Untreated tuberculosis is highly contagious and can lead to serious health problems. Self-medication can be dangerous, as it can lead to resistance to common medications. Treatment can take months or even years, so it’s crucial to work with a healthcare professional to ensure you’re getting the right care.
Like COVID-19, tuberculosis can be managed with antibiotics and preventive measures like wearing a mask and, in some cases, isolation. If you’re infected, it’s essential to visit a healthcare center for guidance on managing the disease and reducing the risk of transmission.