Tuberculosis Diagnosis in Children

[chachi]

Hi folks..I was just wondering if anyone here has any knowledge or experience with this topic? My sweet 7yr old nephew was diagnosed yesterday and I'm getting a little upset reading up about it. He has to be on medication for the next 9 months and the side effects are freaking me out a bit. I'm also bummed because he lives down in Miami so I feel a bit out of the loop. TIA!

 

[GMonkey]

I wish your nephew a speedy recovery.

I've heard that diseases like TB are on the rise because so many parents have withheld vaccinations because they believe that they link to autism.

http://www.immunize.org/catg.d/p2065.pdf

 

[NurseMommy]

Chastity,

I don't know much about TB in children, but I wanted to send hugs and support. I know it must feel scary, and it's especially hard not to be where he is! Hang in there!

Allison

 

[fit44]

I don't know anything about the disease.
My mother's father had it, and my mother tested positive for it years and years later. She was told you will test positive if you are exposed to it.

 

[chachi]

Thanks ladies for the support. My mom was the one that told me about it today. I'm waiting to call my brother this evening after work. I know an Aunt shouldn't say this out loud but he's my favorite. He's just such a sweet natured loveable little boy. Last year when I was visiting with my mom we were in the car after spending the day at the mall and he said, "I'm having the best day because I'm with my Aunt Chastity and my Grandma." How sweet is that?

 

[HaveFun]

I do not know about TB in children, but my Mom had it over 42 years ago and it damaged one of her lungs. The medical field has evolved quite a bit since when she was diagnosed. It is important to find the right doctor who has experience with TB. My Mom is also in Miami which has a good selection of top notch doctors. I am also sending you hugs, support and positive thoughts.

 

[fit_fairy]

GMonkey, there is not a vaccine for TB in the US routinely.

 

[jonahnah]

I wish your nephew a speedy recovery.

I've heard that diseases like TB are on the rise because so many parents have withheld vaccinations because they believe that they link to autism.

http://www.immunize.org/catg.d/p2065.pdf

It's true that diseases like measles, mumps, rubella & whooping cough are on the rise due to parents withholding vaccines over fear of an autism link. However, US children are NOT typically vaccinated for TB because it has been so rare. (It was considered irradicated in the US) They are routinely screened via a skin patch test to see if they've been exposed.

TB is on the rise due to the popularity of world travel to many countries where TB is present and visitors to the US from those countries. Cruises in particular are part of the problem as some employees have TB and unknowingly pass it to other employees and cruiseline passengers over an extended period of time and multiple contacts.

I hope your nephew recovers quickly and I'm so sorry for what your family is having to deal w/. (((((hugs)))))

 

[Fembot40]

My grandmother had TB while she was carrying my mother. After my mother was born, she was put into an institution for people carrying TB. She died when my mother was 2. My mom still has scars on her lungs from being exposed. They've come so far in treating it, even resistant strains. Good luck to your nephew!

 

[GMonkey]

It's true that diseases like measles, mumps, rubella & whooping cough are on the rise due to parents withholding vaccines over fear of an autism link. However, US children are NOT typically vaccinated for TB because it has been so rare. (It was considered irradicated in the US) They are routinely screened via a skin patch test to see if they've been exposed.

TB is on the rise due to the popularity of world travel to many countries where TB is present and visitors to the US from those countries. Cruises in particular are part of the problem as some employees have TB and unknowingly pass it to other employees and cruiseline passengers over an extended period of time and multiple contacts.

I hope your nephew recovers quickly and I'm so sorry for what your family is having to deal w/. (((((hugs)))))

Thanks for the update, I incorrectly lumped it in with the other highly communicable diseases.

Chachi, I hope that all goes well with your nephew. I'm sure that love and support from you and your family will help!