Tuberculosis cases in Mexico reached 4,113, making it the second most prevalent disease in the country, behind influenza.
In week 11 of the year alone, from March 9 to 15, 371 cases were recorded.
Baja California is the state with the highest number of patients, with 360; followed by Nuevo León with 346 and Veracruz with 336.
Tuberculosis is a highly infectious disease caused by the Koch bacillus; one patient can infect between 15 and 20 people per year.
It can affect any organ, but it most commonly manifests in the lungs.
It is a curable disease, although it can become complicated if the sufferer is diabetic, has HIV/AIDS, is an alcoholic, suffers from malnutrition, or has low immunity, such as cancer patients.
Tuberculosis is transmitted through the air, that is, through droplets of saliva expelled when coughing, talking, singing, or sneezing. Therefore, it is important for patients to cover their mouth and nose.
Its main symptom is a cough with phlegm lasting more than 15 days. This can be accompanied by fever in the afternoon, unexplained weight loss, night sweats, loss of appetite, and a feeling of fatigue.
In its severe form, it can manifest as chest pain, difficulty breathing, bleeding when coughing, and headache.
Treatment lasts six months and must be continued without interruption and under strict supervision.
There is also a vaccine available for newborns to prevent the severe form if they develop the condition.
Source: lopezdoriga
