Dr. Teresa Casaleva, the Director of the Global Tuberculosis Program at the World Health Organization (WHO), warned that a quarter of the world's population is infected with fungi that can lead to tuberculosis. Although this does not mean they are ill or can transmit the infection, there is a high risk of developing tuberculosis, which is exacerbated by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. COVID-19 and tuberculosis primarily target the lungs.
In an interview with Vismita Gupta Smith on episode 58 of the "Science in Five" program broadcast by the WHO through its official website and social media accounts, Dr. Casaleva stated that both tuberculosis and COVID-19 significantly impact the lungs. She explained that tuberculosis is caused by bacteria while COVID-19 is caused by a virus, but it is essential to recognize that tuberculosis is prevalent everywhere and can affect anyone. However, there are countries with a high burden of tuberculosis where the risk of infection is much greater.
Dr. Casaleva added that preliminary evidence suggests that tuberculosis patients infected with COVID-19 experience more severe symptoms, which also affects the success of tuberculosis treatment.
### Millions of Victims Worldwide
Dr. Casaleva explained that tuberculosis is one of the deadliest infectious diseases after COVID-19. She noted that tuberculosis spreads everywhere, primarily through the air, and knows no borders. The WHO expert stated that tuberculosis kills more than 4,100 people daily, and approximately 10 million people contract the disease each year. Due to the current situation and disruption of essential services, there are concerns about a significant decline in the ability to diagnose tuberculosis, meaning people may not receive life-saving treatment in a timely manner, and the spread of infection continues. Therefore, measures must be in place, even during the COVID-19 pandemic, to successfully combat diseases and protect people with increased attention and care.
### Important Guidelines
Regarding how to provide the appropriate care for tuberculosis patients, Dr. Casaleva emphasized the importance of following medical advice, ensuring well-ventilated living spaces for patients with their families, adhering to proper hygiene protocols, especially coughing etiquette, wearing appropriate masks, and maintaining physical and social distancing—along with getting vaccinated as soon as vaccines are available.
### COVID and Tuberculosis Testing
Dr. Casaleva advised individuals to get tested for both COVID-19 and tuberculosis and to monitor for symptoms such as severe cough, high fever, and difficulty breathing. She clarified that both diseases can present similar symptoms, so anyone experiencing these symptoms, especially with a family history of tuberculosis, should get tested for tuberculosis along with a PCR or antigen test for COVID-19.
In concluding the interview, Dr. Teresa reiterated that tuberculosis is a preventable and treatable disease, provided that guidelines are strictly followed, contributing to the safety and health of individuals and their families.
