Tuberculosis in Germany: threat or controlled risk?

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tuberculosis: You have to know about the disease - news - wdr - news

Tuberculosis (TB) remains one of the most common causes of death worldwide, despite a decline in infections in many countries, especially in Germany. While systems to combat the disease are established in Germany and the incidence is around five new diseases per 100,000 inhabitants, the rest of the world continues to fight with high number of cases, especially in developing countries, where the disease is often associated with poverty and poor access to medical care.

tuberculosis is transmitted by bacteria that are passed on by droplets from person to person. The lungs are particularly affected, but other organs can also be infected. A germ -free environment and hygienic living conditions have contributed to checking the disease in wealthy countries. Despite the high vaccination rate against tuberculosis, vaccination protection remains limited and is not effective in the long term.

The diagnosis of tuberculosis can be challenging due to the relatively small number of cases in Germany. Standard tests such as skin and blood tests and X-ray examinations are essential, but often poorly accessible in areas with fewer resources. Treatment is lengthy and can take up to 18 months, which is a major challenge for many patients. Side effects of the antibiotics are common and make therapy more difficult.

internationally, there is a serious problem in the social economy conditions that contribute to the spread of tuberculosis. The risk of infection is significantly higher in countries where malnutrition and densely populated living conditions have. Economic pressure means that many people cannot afford access to medical care, which increases mortality. The most recent geopolitical events, such as the war in Ukraine, have also endangered the progress in combating the disease.

Despite the challenges, there is hope. Continuous research on new vaccines and improved therapy approaches is an important step. Combating tuberculosis requires global cooperation, especially in countries with high infection rates to prevent the spread of the disease and to ensure sustainable improvements to the health infrastructure.