TB or tuberculosis is an infectious disease of the lungs caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis . This disease can be transmitted by TB sufferers through coughing or sneezing which spreads into the air. Not only occurs in adults, this disease can also be infected in children. Tuberculosis (TB) in Indonesia ranks third after India and China with 824 thousand cases and 93 thousand deaths per year or the equivalent of 11 deaths per hour.
What causes TB in children?
The cause of the rise of TB cases in children can occur due to several factors, one of which is the child who is often carried and kissed by other people. This happens because TB transmission by sufferers occurs when sufferers cough or sneeze. Then if the sufferer makes direct contact such as kissing and hugging children, especially those whose immune system is not good enough, then these children have a high risk of being exposed to TB.
What are the symptoms of TB in children?
There are several symptoms that generally occur in children exposed to TB, including:
- Cough for a long time that does not go away even more than 3 weeks.
- Fever for more than 2 weeks.
- Cough accompanied by blood.
- The body is weak and has no energy.
- Child loses appetite.
- Fixed or even lost weight within two months.
- Night sweats
- There is swelling of the lymph nodes.
What treatment can be done for TB in children?
If the child has been tested positive for TB by the doctor, then the child will be immediately recommended for treatment. Preventive treatment for children who have close contact with TB patients is the antituberculosis drug (OAT) isozinaid which must be consumed every day for 6-9 months. Whereas for children with active TB, 3 types of antituberculosis drugs will be given, namely isozinaid, pyrazinamide, and rifampicin.
How to prevent TB transmission in children?
as an active step
- TB patients must cover their mouth or nose when coughing or sneezing using a tissue, then immediately throw the tissue in the trash.
- Don't throw your saliva carelessly because it can be a medium for transmitting germs.
- Keep the house clean and ensure that the house has good air ventilation so that children can breathe fresh air.
- Do not allow children to sleep with other people, and be kissed or carried carelessly by other people.
Article written by dr. Anisa Setiorini, Sp. A (Child Specialist at EMC Sentul Hospital).