Tuberculosis on the rise

Tuberculosis is on the rise in Indiana, including right here in Montgomery County.

Tuberculosis is a serious, contagious disease that primarily affects the lungs but can spread to other parts of the body. As part of ongoing public health efforts the Montgomery County Health Department is encouraging individuals who may be at risk to seek testing for TB.

Tuberculosis is a bacterial infection caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis, which spreads through the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. TB can be classified into two types: active TB and latent TB. Active TB occurs when the bacteria are actively multiplying in the body, and the person shows symptoms of the disease. Active TB symptoms may include persistent cough lasting more than three weeks, chest pain, coughing up blood, unexplained weight loss, night sweats, or fever. This form of TB is contagious and can spread to others. It is important to seek medical attention for diagnosis and treatment if you or someone you know is experiencing any of these symptoms,

Latent TB occurs when a person has the bacteria in their body, but the immune system is keeping the bacteria under control. People with latent TB do not show symptoms and cannot spread the disease to others. Without treatment latent TB could progress to active TB.

Screening for tuberculosis is recommended for individuals in the following categories: people with symptoms of active tuberculosis, individuals who have been in close contact with someone diagnosed with active tuberculosis, individuals with compromised immune systems (e.g., HIV-positive individuals), those who have traveled to areas with a high prevalence of tuberculosis(e.g. some countries in Asia, Africa, Eastern Europe, and Latin America), persons who have lived or worked in congregate settings (e.g homeless shelters, correctional facilities, detention centers and long-term care facilities).

The Montgomery County Health Department recommends persons in the above risk groups seek screening through their primary care provider. Screening for TB is also offered at the Montgomery County Health Department for a fee. TB screening involves a simple skin or blood test. To schedule a TB screening appointment at the Montgomery County Health Department, please call (765) 364-7255. We encourage residents who may be at risk or experiencing symptoms of TB to take advantage of this vital service.