ARKANSAS, USA — The Arkansas Department of Health (ADH) has reported a rise in Tuberculosis (TB) cases in the state.
The increase includes Arkansans of all ages, according to the report. ADH says that since Nov. 1, over 100 cases have been recorded. This makes it the first time Arkansas has exceeded 100 TB cases in a single year, according to ADH.
TB is a bacteria that "usually attack the lungs," but can also "attack any part of the body," ADH said. This includes the kidneys, spine, and brain. The disease can become deadly if not treated properly, according to health officials.
What are the symptoms of TB?
According to ADH, the symptoms of Tuberculosis may include:
- chest pain
- fever
- night sweats
- fatigue
- unexplained weight loss
Health officials say that these symptoms can be seen in various diseases, so they can often be misdiagnosed as recurring pneumonia or bronchitis.
Risk factors
The ADH specified those who may be at higher risk of contracting TB. These include:
- HIV patients
- diabetics
- cancer patients
- exposure to known cases
- organ transplant patients
- individuals with kidney disease
- immunocompromised individuals
- Individuals living in congregate settings such as nursing homes
Additionally, ADH says that TB "disproportionally affects African Americans, Pacific Islanders and Hispanics." In general, health officials say, babies, infants, the elderly, and the immunocompromised are "most at risk of severe complications."
If you have been exposed to TB, ADH asks you to call the ADH TB Program at 501-661-2152. To learn more, click here.
