What tuberculosis is
Tuberculosis (TB) is an infection caused by germs that usually attack the lungs. It spreads through the air when a person with TB of the lungs coughs, sneezes or talks. Anyone can get TB, but people who live in crowded homes, are malnourished, have diabetes or HIV, or care for someone with TB are at higher risk. TB is common in Afghanistan, but it can be cured.
Signs of TB
- A cough that lasts more than two weeks
- Coughing up phlegm or blood
- Fever, especially in the evening, and sweating at night
- Losing weight and appetite
- Tiredness and chest pain
In children, signs may include a long cough, fever, not gaining weight and being less active than usual.
Testing and treatment
If you have had a cough for more than two weeks, go to a health centre and ask for a TB test. A sample of phlegm is checked in the laboratory. TB testing and treatment are free of charge at public health facilities.
- TB treatment lasts several months, usually at least six.
- Take every dose, every day, for the full time, even when you start to feel better after a few weeks.
- Stopping early can make the illness come back in a form that is much harder to treat.
- Tell your health worker about any side effects, instead of stopping the medicine yourself.
Protect your family
- Cover your mouth when coughing, and spit phlegm into a covered container or a tissue, not on the ground.
- Open windows and let fresh air and sunlight into the house.
- Family members, especially children under five, should be checked at the health centre, even if they feel well.
- Babies should receive BCG vaccine at birth as part of routine vaccination.
When to see a doctor
See a doctor or go to a health centre if you have had a cough for more than two weeks, or if you live with someone who has TB and you have any symptoms. Go to the nearest hospital immediately if you cough up a large amount of blood or have severe difficulty breathing.
If you are worried about a long cough, book a consultation with a doctor in the app or visit a clinic.