What is tuberculosis (TB)?

TB is a serious contagious disease caused by bacteria that mainly affects your lungs, but it can spread to other parts of your body.

How does TB spread?

• TB is spread through airborne droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes.

TB does not spread by:

• Shaking someone’s hand.
• Sharing food or drinks.
• Touching bed linen or toilet seats.
• Sharing toothbrushes.
• Kissing.
• Touching any other surface!

What are the symptoms of TB?

• A cough that lasts for more than two weeks.
• Chest pain or feeling pain while breathing.
• Coughing up blood.
• Heavy night sweats.
• Unexplained weight loss.
• Unexplained high fever or chills.

If you have these symptoms, go and see your healthcare provider immediately!

How to protect yourself from getting TB!

• Wear a mask if you are in close contact with someone who has TB.
• Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing.
• Open windows for better airflow in crowded areas.
• Complete your TB treatment to stop the spread of the disease.

Get tested if you are at risk!
It’s important to get tested if:

• You have been in close contact with someone who has TB.
• You have symptoms.
• You are a healthcare worker or work in high-risk settings.
• You have a weakened immune system e.g., HIV patients.

What’s the treatment for TB?

• Your healthcare provider will help you with the right treatment plan.
• It’s very important that you take the full course of medicine exactly as your healthcare provider prescribed! If you don’t, your TB will become drug-resistant which means the medication will not be as effective as it should be.
• If you stop taking your medicine, your symptoms will return!

Early detection saves lives!

If you suspect you have TB, visit your nearest Platinum Health medical facility for screening and treatment immediately. If you are diagnosed with TB early, and you get the proper treatment, you can be cured from TB!

Yes, You and I can End TB!