Tuberculosis (TB) is an infectious but curable disease, most commonly affecting the lungs, though it can also target the brain, heart, kidneys, bones, lymph nodes, and more. It spreads through coughing or sneezing by someone with active TB.
1. How do I know if I have TB?
Visit your nearest public clinic if you experience any of the following symptoms:
- Persistent cough (≥2 weeks)
- Fever, night sweats, weight loss
- Fatigue or general weakness
- Children may also exhibit poor weight gain and failure to thrive
2. How is TB diagnosed?
- Adults: Provide two sputum samples; results typically take 2–3 days
- Children: Tested via skin tests, chest X-ray, or other diagnostic methods
3. Where can I get tested and treated?
- Free TB testing and treatment are available at public clinics and hospitals.
- For drug-resistant TB, treatment follows updated national guidelines. Both drug-susceptible and drug-resistant strains are treated under the National TB Programme.
- Specialist hospitals (e.g. Fort Grey TB Hospital in Eastern Cape) also offer dedicated TB services.
4. How long is TB treatment?
- Drug-susceptible TB: A 6-month treatment course provided at no cost
- Drug-resistant (MDR/XDR) TB: Treated using shorter (6‑9 month) all-oral regimens, per updated WHO guidelines.
5. Can I prevent TB?
- People living with HIV, silicosis, or close contacts of TB patients may be offered preventive therapy (e.g. isoniazid), following recent national guidance.
- TB screening is recommended in settings like clinics, workplaces, schools, and congregate facilities.
6. Where can I find more help?
National Department of Health – TB page with helpline: 0800 012 322, WhatsApp: 0600 123 456
Guidelines and brochures:
Order
0
