Since tuberculosis (TB) is in the news, it might be time to discuss this on EO for the protection of the members...
Exposure to TB has reached epidemic proportions here in the USA.
Only 15% of those exposed become "productive" and can spread the disease.
TB Facts...
A disease that is spread by airborne bacteria that settles in the lungs and results in long-term infections
Each year 8.7 million (worldwide, 2004) people are infected by TB
TB causes 2 million (worldwide, 2004) deaths a year
AIDS cases and the breaking down of immune systems were responsible for the resurgence of TB in Europe and North America in the 1990s
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What should we in transportation be doing.???
1. Get an annual TB test. Treatments are available for the more common strains. BUT ... you must know if you have been exposed.
(example... in 2006, several of the firefighters at my FD tested positive during their annual TB skin test. They took a course of medication and are OK.)
2. Have face masks available. They must have an N-95 rating. Wear you mask, as necessary. These masks can be purchased in most hardware stores.. they also filter fine dust particles
3. Educate yourself... the internet can assist you with information..
Wise Men (and Women) Still Seek HIM.
Exposure to TB has reached epidemic proportions here in the USA.
Only 15% of those exposed become "productive" and can spread the disease.
TB Facts...
A disease that is spread by airborne bacteria that settles in the lungs and results in long-term infections
Each year 8.7 million (worldwide, 2004) people are infected by TB
TB causes 2 million (worldwide, 2004) deaths a year
AIDS cases and the breaking down of immune systems were responsible for the resurgence of TB in Europe and North America in the 1990s
*******************************************************************
What should we in transportation be doing.???
1. Get an annual TB test. Treatments are available for the more common strains. BUT ... you must know if you have been exposed.
(example... in 2006, several of the firefighters at my FD tested positive during their annual TB skin test. They took a course of medication and are OK.)
2. Have face masks available. They must have an N-95 rating. Wear you mask, as necessary. These masks can be purchased in most hardware stores.. they also filter fine dust particles
3. Educate yourself... the internet can assist you with information..
Wise Men (and Women) Still Seek HIM.