Tuberculosis outbreak in Kaiserslautern: Discovered three cases!

Tuberculosis outbreak in Kaiserslautern: Discovered three cases!

In and around Kaiserslautern, current cases of tuberculosis have been found. On April 1, an open lung tuberculosis was diagnosed in a six-year-old child in the West Palatinate Clinic. This child shows slight symptoms and already receives medical treatment. In addition to the child, a teenage girl was also tested positively, both live in Kaiserslautern. There is also another case in the district, as the Rheinpfalz reports.

The health department immediately initiated a surrounding examination to recognize possible further infections. More than 150 contact persons, including children from a daycare center and students of a secondary school, are currently being examined. So far, however, there is no evidence of an infection among the contact persons examined. The authority is in close exchange with the daycare center and the school to ensure that all those affected are well informed.

examination methods and prevention

The tests of the contact persons can include tuberculin skin tests, X-ray recordings and blood tests. The aim of these measures is to identify the source of infection. In addition to medical care, long -term care is intended for both the patients and the contact persons. Parents can contact the health department directly if you have any questions, the further testing in the area of ​​the sick.

tuberculosis is caused by bacteria that mainly affect the lungs. The most common symptoms include cough, fatigue, fever, lack of appetite, weight loss and nightly sweating. The infection takes place through droplet infection, but the disease is not highly contagious. In small children and immunodized persons, the disease can break out in 20-40% of cases.

Special attention requires the treatment of tuberculosis, which is lengthy and complicated. Standard therapy lasts at least six months and requires the simultaneous taking of several medication, including Isoniazid, Rifampicin, Ethambutol and Pyrazinamide. In the event of resistance or intolerance, secondary or reserve medication must be used. The treatment can take up to 20 months, especially with multi -resistant tuberculosis.

Stability of the resistance rates in Germany

The resistance rates of tuberculosis in Germany remain stable, but are often higher among people born abroad. The largest proportion of multi -resistant tuberculosis can be found in patients from former Soviet states. Early demolition of the therapy can result in relapses or other resistance, which is why careful monitoring of the patient is required.

Enlightenment about tuberculosis is of central importance so that the sick and contact persons receive the necessary support. Helpful information is available through digital applications and guidelines that have been specially developed for patients. It is also important that relatives and friends provide support in order to promote the healing process, for example through the use of mouth-nose protection for safe contact.

The current situation in Kaiserslautern illustrates the importance of prevention, early detection and cooperation between health authorities and affected communities. In this way, the spread of tuberculosis can be contained and the health of those affected can be secured. Further information on the subject of tuberculosis can be found on gesund.bund.de .