Is it possible to test tuberculosis and COVID-19 on the same sputum sample?
Diagnostic methods and a sample of biological material for the detection of tuberculosis and COVID-19 are different. Sputum, which a person coughs up on his own, is used to diagnose tuberculosis. Tests for COVID-19 are carried out from material taken from the nasopharynx or oropharynx using a swab.
Molecular testing is the currently recommended method for detecting COVID-19.
If tuberculosis is occurred, you can undergo a free examination at the clinic at your place of residence by contacting your local doctor.
A coronavirus test can be done only if there are symptoms or contact with patients with COVID-19 and only in specialized hospitals, by a mandatory preliminary call to the COVID-19 hotline in the Republic of Kazakhstan - 1406.
Is the treatment for tuberculosis different in people suffering from both tuberculosis and COVID19?
Regardless of COVID-19 infection or disease, treatment for tuberculosis should not be interrupted. The duration and treatment regimen for TB does not differ in people with or without COVID-19. It is imperative that people in need of treatment for tuberculosis continue to take anti-TB drugs during the pandemic, even if they purchase COVID-19 to increase the chances of a cure, as well as reduce the transmission of TB infection and the development of drug resistance to anti-TB drugs.
What preventive measures should a TB patient follow in order not to get COVID19?
According to WHO, people with lung diseases are at risk for COVID-19. Therefore, for patients with tuberculosis during the COVID-19 pandemic, it is important not to interrupt the use of anti-TB drugs.
There is currently no specific prophylaxis - a vaccine from COVID -19. The measures of non-specific prevention of COVID -19 include:
- Social distance - until the quarantine of COVID-19 is completed for TB patients who are on an outpatient basis, stay at home, go out only to buy food and receive NNL in the nearest clinic;
- Keeping distance from people at least 1 meter;
- The use of facial masks in crowded places, shops, in any contact with people;
- The exception of touching hands to the face, nose, eyes;
- Regular, frequent and thorough washing of hands and disinfectant treatment;
- Proper nutrition, rejection of bad habits, occupation by PE
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