Nearly 200 cases will be recorded in the country in 2023; See the symptoms and how to prevent them

With the aim of raising awareness among the population, the Tocantins State Department of Health (SES-TO) warns against taking care of tuberculosis, a disease whose National Day is celebrated on November 17. A prolonged dry cough or coughing up phlegm for more than three weeks is a symptom of the disease.

Tuberculosis is a contagious and contagious disease caused by the bacteria Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It is transmitted through the air when a sick person sneezes, coughs, or talks. It usually affects the lungs, but it can also harm other organs such as the kidneys, bladder, liver, intestines, and skin. In addition to cough, symptoms can include fever, fatigue and weight loss.

“It is very important that the population has this information to identify the signs and symptoms of tuberculosis,” stated the nurse from the TB Technical Area of ​​SES-TO, Roner Marcelo Lopez Ochoa. “If they occur, you should look for the nearest basic health unit so that the diagnosis can be made and started.” In treatment, it is free and provided entirely through the unified health system, is available in all basic health units, and can last from 6 months to one year.

According to data from the Reportable Diseases Information System (SINAN), obtained on 11/16/2023, 196 is the number of tuberculosis cases in Tocantins in 2023. Of these 196 people, seven are due to recurrence, which is due to abandonment. The treatment must be restarted.

protection

BCG vaccine is the main form of disease prevention, and is given to children up to 5 years of age, and is free through SUS. It is recommended to keep environments well ventilated and exposed to sunlight, eat well and engage in physical activity. In case of infection, it is necessary to undergo treatment and wear a mask to prevent its spread.