The Department of Public Health of Côte-Nord is conducting epidemiological investigations while six cases of tuberculosis are currently active in the region.
We have noticed the return of the disease to the region since 2019.
The main symptoms are a cough that lasts for more than three weeks and is accompanied by phlegm, fever, and extreme fatigue. In severe cases, the disease can cause death if left untreated, according to Health Canada.
There are two versions of TB: latent TB infection and active TB.
In the first case, the person is infected with the microbe, but it is inactive. Hence there are no symptoms and no risk of infection. In 90%, the infection remains latent and will not go further.
In the second case, symptoms appear after the infected person's immune system is no longer able to defend itself adequately. When a person with pulmonary tuberculosis coughs and sneezes, they release germs into the air. Other people can become infected by inhaling these spores.
The majority of the 13 cases reported last year on the North Shore were due to “reactivation of mycobacteria in people who were exposed to it in the past,” explains CISSS on the North Shore.
Of the six current cases, two are listed in the Uchat Mak Mani Utinam community.
“The Department of Public Health is working closely with the community to conduct epidemiological investigations and disseminate the TB Elimination Plan. Cooperation is excellent.”
The investigation aims to identify, isolate and treat cases of tuberculosis. We also want to identify and screen contacts with the aim of diagnosing and treating latent TB to avoid reactivation.
