It may seem foolhardy to think of another global health concern in light of the current COVID-19 pandemic, but this one has been with us for centuries: tuberculosis. When it comes to tuberculosis, it’s the proverbial “Good News, Bad News” situation.
First, the Bad News. Tuberculosis (TB) is still the world’s deadliest infection, killing more than 4,000 people daily and infecting almost another 30,000. Even in the United States – estimates are 13 million people have a latent TB infection, which could develop into active TB.
But now, the Good News. Tuberculosis is a preventable and curable disease, and thanks to global efforts during the past 20 years, an estimated 58 million lives have been saved.
World Tuberculosis Day (March 24) serves as an annual reminder that we can beat tuberculosis on a global scale, but the whole world must get involved. Even as an international student, you can play a significant role by being aware of TB, asking your doctor whether you are at risk for TB, and getting screened before you travel.
World Tuberculosis Day is celebrated every year on March 24, the day Dr. Robert Koch revealed that he had identified the bacteria that causes TB in 1882. The German bacteriologist also discovered the anthrax disease cycle (1872) and the cholera bacteria (1883). His discovery of the TB bacteria opened the possibility of earlier diagnosis, better treatment, and, ultimately, a cure. This year’s theme for World Tuberculosis Day is “It’s Time” — as in it’s time to act on the commitments our world leaders made at the UN High-Level Meeting that occurred back in September of 2018. Those commitments included greater access to prevention and treatment and additional funding to finance research, among others.
World Tuberculosis Day gives everyone a chance to spread awareness and to voice their support for sending committed resources to meet the World Health Organization’s (WHO) substantial goals:
Awareness and support of TB treatment and research are still desperately needed. In 2018, an estimated 10 million new cases of tuberculosis were identified. That’s an astonishing number considering many of those who are infected will never know or show symptoms. Tuberculosis is caused by air-borne bacteria that easily infect others, but can remain inactive for long periods of time.
In addition, drug-resistant strains have large gaps between those who are diagnosed and those who are treated. Currently, only 1 in 3 people needing treatment are receiving it. Unfortunately, a more than $1.2 billion funding gap is limiting the development of accurate TB testing and treatment, including the 14 vaccine candidates and 23 drugs in clinical trials.
You should rely on your doctor’s recommendations regarding screening, but in general, those at highest risk for tuberculosis include:
Even if you meet none of the listed risk factors, you may need to be screened if you will be working with at-risk demographics or traveling. This most certainly includes international students studying abroad. In fact, many schools and programs require TB screening, in accordance with the ACHA’s guidelines.
In addition, if you do become ill, keep an eye out for the symptoms of tuberculosis, which include:
You should seek medical attention and advice whenever you are ill. If you are concerned that you may have contracted tuberculosis, whether at home or abroad, discuss your fears with your doctor. They will recommend screening and treatment if necessary.
Multiple organizations are collaborating to end tuberculosis for good, and they provide ample resources on their respective websites:
Tuberculosis is a global issue, and there is no shame in being screened, diagnosed, or treated for TB. In fact, until we all take responsibility for our own screening, the disease will continue to spread. Far from being an embarrassing medical test, it is your way of helping to end TB for good.
LewerMark is here to help and protect our schools and students as we work together to end tuberculosis. LewerMark programs typically cover screenings, and all of our plans cover TB treatment subject to the policy guidelines, meaning that students can arrive in the U.S. with peace of mind and the ability to focus on adjusting to their new lives.
