The Department of Disease Control (DDC) is urging the public, especially those with underlying medical conditions that could worsen tuberculosis (TB), to undergo TB screenings to prevent its spread. The call comes in response to recent reports of a well-known actor contracting TB, likely due to close contact with a friend who succumbed to the disease on September 5.
According to DDC Director-General Dr Tares Krassanairawiwong, Thailand is one of the top 30 countries globally with the highest number of active TB cases. Thailand records some 103,000 new TB cases annually, resulting in about 12,000 TB-related deaths.
While a quarter of the Thai population has developed some resistance to TB, individuals with weakened immune systems are still at high risk of severe symptoms. Dr Tares has advised people with chronic health conditions, along with those residing in congested environments, individuals struggling with substance addiction, such as drugs or alcohol, migrant workers, and frontline medical staff to seriously consider undergoing regular TB screenings.
TB is an airborne respiratory disease transmitted through coughing, sneezing, and talking. Common symptoms include a persistent cough lasting over two weeks, mild fever, loss of appetite and weight loss. The illness is treatable with a recommended six-month medication regimen. Early detection is crucial and individuals with family members diagnosed with TB are advised to seek immediate medical attention to prevent transmission.
For more information, the DDC offers assistance through their 1442 hotline and the tuberculosis division at 02-211-2224. (NNT)
