World TB Day
March 24 is World TB Day and is a day to educate the public about the impact of TB (tuberculosis) around the world. World TB Day commemorates the date in 1882 when Dr. Robert Koch announced his discovery of Mycobacterium tuberculosis, the bacillus that causes TB. The disease spreads through the air from person to person and is present in our community, throughout the US, and the world. But it can be stopped by increasing understanding of the disease and raising awareness of the challenges that hinder progress toward the elimination of this devastating disease.
Not everyone infected with TB bacteria becomes sick. As a result, two TB-related conditions exist: latent TB infection (LTBI) and TB disease. The Black Hawk County Public Health team of professionals is dedicated to protecting the health of community members who are living with or have been exposed to TB disease. Prevention and treatment services of TB disease are covered for any community member at no charge. Treatment for LTBI is also free.
For more information, please visit the Black Hawk County Public Health website or call 319-291-2413.