Here are some common questions related to Tuberculosis in Children answered by Dr. Kanchankumar Bhagyawant - Consultant Pediatrician and Neonatologist in Pune.
How can we prevent tuberculosis in children?
Tuberculosis can be prevented by vaccine-BCG, which should be given at birth. Early detection of tuberculosis infection in family or close contact groups and treatment can prevent children from developing the disease.
What are the symptoms of TB in a child?
TB occurs most commonly in children less than 5years. While TB involving the lungs is the predominant form of TB in children presenting as cough & fever for more than 2 weeks, loss of appetite, weight loss. TB involving other organs (extra pulmonary TB) is also common. Spread of the TB germs through the blood to other vital organs e.g. brain, lungs, can be life-threatening.