Mycobaterium tuberculosis is the bacteria that causes tuberculosis (TB), a disease that affects not only the lungs, but also other organ systems such as the brain or kidneys. The most common form, pulmonary TB, causes symptoms such as a prolonged fever, cough, chest pain and weight loss.
The latest Tuberculosis (TB) Global Report by the World Health Organisation (WHO) placed Bangladesh in the top 8 countries with the highest rates of TB, citing an estimated incidence rate of 100-299 cases per 100,000 people 1.
Why is TB a big deal?
Pulmonary TB is easily spread between people via respiratory droplets and if left untreated, can be fatal. Risk factors for TB include chronic disease, HIV infection and drug use, but it is important to note that TB can affect anyone regardless of age, gender or health status.
How do we screen for TB?
The chest X-Ray component of the immigration medical is a screening tool for underlying disease such as TB. Other tests such as the Interferon Gamma Release Assay (IGRA) blood test and Tuberculin Skin Test (TST) also check for a form of TB called LTBI (Latent TB Infection). These tests are completed in accordance with protocols stipulated by the immigration departments that we work with.
It is also important that applicants inform the panel physicians of any TB treatment history, symptoms such as weight loss, fevers or coughing as well as a history of TB treatment for family members of the same household.
Can TB be treated?
Fortunately, TB can usually be treated with specific antibiotic regimens under the supervision of qualified pulmonary physicians. It is crucial that TB-positive patients complete the treatments as prescribed, as failure to do so can result in drug-resistant TB, which is much harder to treat.
What happens when an applicant is TB positive?
All TB positive applicants are referred for treatment immediately. Those with Latent TB Infection, are informed as such, and follow necessary protocols as well. The immigration medical and visa application will then be managed as per each immigration departments’ protocols.
1 Global Tuberculosis Report 2022. World Health Organization 2022.