World TB Day: Tuberculosis can spread through air, follow these hygiene practices to prevent spread

World TB Day 2024: People who are coughing, sneezing, or having difficulty breathing, should cover their mouth and nose with a tissue or an elbow. This helps to reduce the spread of infectious droplets into the air (Image: Cavna)

Tuberculosis (TB) remains a persistent global health challenge, with millions of new cases reported each year. This infectious disease, caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis, can spread through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Preventing the transmission of TB requires a multifaceted approach, especially within households where close contact can lead to increased risk.

Dr Rahul Kendre, a Lung Transplant Physician at DPU Super Speciality Hospital in Pimpri, Pune, stresses the critical role of proper hygiene practices in combating TB. Whether in public spaces or at home, these practices are essential to reducing the spread of this contagious disease.

When individuals are exposed to someone with TB, particularly in public settings, they are at heightened risk of infection. The first line of defense, according to Kendre, is to maintain cough etiquette. This means covering the mouth and nose with a tissue or elbow when coughing or sneezing to prevent the release of infectious droplets into the air.

For those who are immunocompromised, such as individuals with conditions like HIV, taking extra precautions is crucial. Kendre advises wearing an N95 or surgical mask when in public places or using public transport. These masks serve as protective barriers against inhaling TB bacteria present in the environment.

Furthermore, the expert emphasises the importance of avoiding prolonged fasting periods, as this can increase the risk of developing TB infection, even if already infected. It's important to note that being infected with TB does not automatically mean developing the disease, but certain factors, such as immunocompromised conditions, can heighten the risk.

In households where there is a confirmed case of active TB, stringent hygiene practices are vital. Kendre outlines key behaviours to prevent the spread of TB within the home:

Promote good respiratory hygiene: Proper respiratory hygiene is critical in preventing the spread of tuberculosis. Individuals who are coughing, sneezing, or having difficulty breathing should cover their mouth and nose with a tissue or an elbow. This helps to reduce the spread of infectious droplets into the air.

Clean and disinfect surfaces: Regular cleaning and disinfection of surfaces, particularly commonly touched places such as doorknobs, handles, and shared surfaces, aids in the elimination of any potentially infectious material. Household disinfectants or a solution of water and bleach can successfully kill tuberculosis (TB) bacteria on surfaces.

Dispose waste properly: To avoid the spread of infection, respiratory secretions, such as used tissues or masks worn by people with tuberculosis, must be disposed of properly. These materials should be placed in a sealed plastic bag and discarded right away.

Wear personal protective equipment (PPE): In families with a confirmed case of active tuberculosis, caregivers and household members should use proper personal protective equipment, such as face masks, to limit the risk of spreading.