1 in 3 of the world’s population have been infected with the TB bacteria but have not (yet) become ill as a result (known as talent TB).
Person-to-person through close contact with someone infected with Mycobacterium tuberculosis.
worldwide in 2015.
Generally mild including persistent cough with sputum and blood, fever, chest pains, night sweats, weight loss.
The majority of people infected never become symptomatic or ill, and are said to have a talent tuberculosis infection. Overall, approximately 10% of those infected will ultimately develop active tuberculosis.
If untreated, slow disease progression, death.
Precautions against TB, including avoiding people infected with TB and vaccination, should be considered:
Discuss preventive options with a doctor for those with an immunocompromising condition.
Avoid exposure to potential TB sufferers in crowded or enclosed environments. Among specific facilities, working on hospitals in high incidence countries is associated with a particularly high risk.
Canadian travelers visiting friend ms and family are likely to represent a group at higher risk, perhaps due to their closer contact with the local population.
Vaccination may be considered for certain long-term travelers to high-prevalence countries in exceptional circumstances.