The number of tuberculosis patients, 20,535 in 2005, was 11,401 in 2019 and 8,925 in 2020, a 56.5% decrease in the total case rate in 2020 compared with 2005. However, within this decline over the years, the data for the last year show a steeper drop. The COVID-19 pandemic is thought to be the factor behind this rapid decline.
According to Ministry of Health data, in 2020, compared with 2019, the number of examinations performed at tuberculosis control dispensaries, the number of people placed on preventive treatment, the number of contact examinations and the number of bacteriological tests decreased by about 40%, and the number of newly registered tuberculosis patients decreased by 26%.In Türkiye, the COVID-19 pandemic has had a negative impact on tuberculosis control.
World Health Organization data are similar to those in Türkiye. Every year, 10 million new cases occur worldwide and 1.2 million people die of tuberculosis. As a result of inadequate or inappropriate treatment, half a million cases of drug-resistant tuberculosis arise. Due to inadequate diagnosis and treatment during the pandemic, there may be an additional 6.3 million TB cases worldwide between 2020 and 2025, and an extra 1.4 million TB deaths during this period. The COVID-19 pandemic may set back the fight against tuberculosis by 5-8 years worldwide and in Türkiye.
The COVID-19 pandemic may set back the fight against tuberculosis by 5-8 years worldwide and in Türkiye.
The main reasons for these negative effects on tuberculosis control are:
- Patients not seeking care at healthcare facilities,
- Patients seeking care at healthcare facilities late,
- Healthcare facilities being unable to devote enough time to diseases other than COVID-19,
- A decline in the rate of tuberculosis testing and diagnostic procedures
Follow-up of people with tuberculosis during the COVID-19 pandemic:
- Communication with people affected by tuberculosis should primarily be maintained through virtual communication tools
- People receiving tuberculosis treatment should keep a supply of their medications for several months at home, and a regular supply should be ensured
- People with tuberculosis should be ensured the necessary psychosocial, nutritional and economic support
- People who provide tuberculosis care and follow-up should use the necessary personal protective equipment
Precautions people with tuberculosis should take to reduce the risk of COVID-19:
- Stay at home and avoid contact with people as much as possible.
- Wash your hands frequently with soap and water.
- Do not touch your face, nose or eyes with unwashed hands.
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- Follow your tuberculosis treatment strictly and do not miss any doses.
- Avoid hospital visits as much as possible and stay in touch with your doctor, nurse or healthcare facility by phone.
- Always wear your mask and take extra care to maintain hygiene.
The information on our website is not intended to direct individuals to any treatment. Do not take any diagnostic or treatment steps without consulting your doctor. The content does not contain information about İzmir Can Hastanesi's therapeutic healthcare services.
