By Rebecca Bird : Mar 15, 2011
AN UNUSUALLY high number of cases of tuberculosis is causing concern among TCI’s health professionals. The country’s medical centres usually treat an average of five cases a year, but this year nine new cases have already been reported.On Wednesday the Ministry of Health announced plans to increase surveillance and preventive screening for tuberculosis.Vulnerable groups, such as the very young, elderly and infirm, will be the first to be targeted.A statement from the ministry read: “Investigations into the nine current cases are continuing and the Ministry of Health wishes to assure the public that there is no cause for panic or undue worry.”The National Communicable Disease Surveillance Committee continues to monitor and evaluate the situation.And additional measures will be put in place, as necessary, to address this important public health problem.The Ministry of Health is also seeking the assistance of the Pan American Health Organisation to implement a comprehensive tuberculosis awareness, prevention, and control campaign in the TCI.This campaign will focus on public education and screening for tuberculosis in the wider TCI community, especially in vulnerable communities and groups.“The observance of World Tuberculosis Day on March 24 will provide a timely opportunity to highlight and respond to the issue of tuberculosis in our community,” the statement read.Tuberculosis bacteria are released into the air when a person with active tuberculosis disease of the lungs or throat coughs, sneezes, speaks, or sings.People nearby may breathe in these germs and become infected.The public is advised to incorporate the following universal precautions to prevent the spread of respiratory infections like tuberculosis:-Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it;-Wash your hands often with soap and water. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand rub;-Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth as germs spread this way; and-If you have a bad cough that lasts three weeks or longer seek immediate medical attention.
http://tcweeklynews.com/tb-outbreak-causes-concern-p2366-1.htm
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