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Tuberculosis

Tuberculosis (TB) is an infection caused by a bacteria that can affect many parts of the body but most commonly affects the lungs. It is estimated that over 9 million new cases occur around the world every year. Most travellers are not at high risk of infection.

Symptoms

Persistent cough, weight loss, fever, night sweats, loss of appetite, fatigue

How do you catch tuberculosis?
TB is caught most commonly from someone who has the form affecting the lungs, through coughing, sneezing or spitting. The risk is higher when longer periods of time are spent living or working with an infected person.

Incubation period
4 – 12 weeks

Diagnosis

Blood tests and sputum tests confirm the diagnosis, along with X-rays.

Prevention
Avoid overcrowded places and close contact with infected people in regions where the risk is high. The BCG vaccine can be offered to help protect against the disease, but a skin or blood test is needed to check there is no obvious or hidden (latent) infection first

Treatment
A combination of antibiotics is needed. Treatment normally lasts for at least six months.

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Vaccination options

 

Live vaccine, not suitable for everyone. Dependant on age, a Mantoux skin test or blood test is usually required before vaccination, please speak to our customer services team.

 

Level of protection: ~ 70-80% against some forms of TB. Less effective in adults.

 

Protection duration: Protection lasts 10-15 years.

 

How is it given: Single injection that usually leaves a scar.

 

Ideally start: 8-12 weeks before travel.

 

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Did you know?

  • The majority of people infected will not develop the disease itself.
  • In some cases, TB will remain in the body without any symptoms for many years after infection and progress to the disease in later life ('latent' TB).
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