JAKARTA - In a house, affection is usually manifested through physical closeness. However, when one of the adult family members is diagnosed with Tuberculosis (TB), the best form of affection is sometimes in the form of giving "safe distance" in order to protect the little one.
TB is often considered an adult disease, but children are actually the most vulnerable group to be infected because their immune systems are still developing. Dr. Nastiti Kaswandani, Sp.A, Subsp.Resp, a pediatric respirologist, shared tips to keep children safe even in an environment exposed to TB.
Two Crucial Weeks
TB transmission occurs through the Mycobacterium tuberculosis germ that spreads through the air when a person talks, coughs, or sneezes. Dr. Nastiti emphasized that the most dangerous period is when adult patients are in the infectious phase - that is, before starting treatment to the first two weeks of treatment.
"If there are adults around who have tuberculosis, the main way to prevent transmission is to avoid close contact," explained a doctor from the Dr. Cipto Mangunkusumo Hospital, reported by ANTARA.
Building a Defense Fort for Children
In addition to maintaining distance, there are several practical steps that parents can take as a "safety belt" for children's health:
Masks are the Key: The use of masks for adult patients is very important to hold droplets from being spread into the air.
Early Immunization: Make sure your child gets the BCG vaccine shortly after birth. This is a very effective basic protection step.
Balanced Nutrition: Good nutrition is the main fuel for the child's immune system to fight incoming germs.
Preventive therapy: For toddlers who live with TB patients, there are now national and international programs that recommend preventive drugs so that germs that may have entered do not develop into the disease.
Love and Patience in Long-Term Treatment
Facing TB is not only about medicine, but also about mental resilience. TB treatment takes at least six months without interruption. This long duration often triggers boredom in patients, which risks making treatment stop in the middle of the road.
This is where the role of the family becomes very crucial. Not only as a reminder to take medication, but also as a psychological support.
"Especially if the TB experienced is quite heavy, the role of the family is very important. Helping to increase immunity with nutritious food and providing psychological support is very meaningful," added dr. Nastiti, who is also a member of IDAI.
Preventing TB in children is a team effort between medical professionals and families. With proper vigilance and loving support, we can ensure that every little breath is relieved and their future is bright.
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