Together against tuberculosis: What we need to know about the forgotten pandemic

Together against tuberculosis: What we need to know about the forgotten pandemic

World Tuberculosis Day is celebrated worldwide on March 24th. This day is an opportunity to raise awareness of one of the world's deadliest infectious diseases, which claims approximately 1.25 million lives each year. In Austria, around 120 patients are treated every year as inpatients and outpatients in the country's largest tuberculosis ward in Penzing. There are currently around 400 tuberculosis patients in the country, with the cure rate being an impressive 95%.

The disease is caused by mycobacteria, which mainly affects the lungs but can also attack other organs. Symptoms include a long-lasting cough, weight loss, fever and night sweats. In Austria, tuberculosis is comparatively rare, which means that many doctors do not immediately think of the disease when symptoms arise. However, if left untreated, tuberculosis can be fatal, and about a quarter of the world's population carries the bacteria, although in 90% of cases the disease never breaks out.

Current figures and trends

Despite advances in treatment, the global tuberculosis epidemic is far from over. According to the World Health Organization (WHO) report, the estimated number of new TB cases rose to about 10.6 million in 2022, an increase compared to previous years. Deaths from tuberculosis are estimated at 1.3 million in 2022. This shows the urgent need to prioritize tuberculosis control, especially as the COVID-19 pandemic and armed conflicts impact resources for TB care.

According to the Robert Koch Institute (RKI), a total of 4,481 cases of tuberculosis were registered in Germany in 2023, which corresponds to a total incidence of 5.3 cases per 100,000 inhabitants. This represents an increase of 10.4% compared to the previous year. Of particular concern is the increase in tuberculosis with rifampicin resistance, which increased from 189 to 208 cases. In childhood, the number of cases increased from 192 to 242 cases, an increase of 26%.

Treatment and prevention

Treatment for tuberculosis usually involves a combination of four antibiotics for at least six months. Patients suffering from overt tuberculosis must be isolated and hospitalized. Cases with multi-resistant germs are particularly challenging. After 2-4 weeks of treatment, most patients are no longer contagious. The Ottakring Clinic in Penzing has a modern tuberculosis outpatient clinic that offers comprehensive care.

An interdisciplinary team accompanies the patients throughout the treatment, including social workers and clinical psychologists. Tuberculosis is notifiable and those affected are closely monitored. The disease can heal completely, but in some cases it leaves scarring in the lungs, which can lead to persistent breathing difficulties.

The challenges facing public health are significant. To achieve the WHO's goals and the End TB Strategy, which aims to reduce deaths by 75% by 2025, it is important to prioritize tuberculosis control and direct resources and attention to this neglected pandemic.

For more information, see reports from Vienna.gv.at, RKI and DZK tuberculosis.