Tuberculosis is a disease that primarily affects the respiratory system. It causes widespread loss of human lives and affects people of all age groups. Mycobacterium tuberculosis is responsible for causing this deadly disease. The bacteria specifically target the lungs. If left untreated for long time, tuberculosis can affect vital organs too. This leads to tremendous weight loss and muscle wastage in the affected person.

Did you know that drinking unpasteurized milk could cause tuberculosis? Mycobacterium bovis causes tuberculosis in people who consume unpasteurized milk. This milk has abundant bacteria and microorganisms, which can cause numerous diseases to humans. Since microorganisms thrive luxuriantly in unpasteurized milk, the occurrence of numerous diseases likes tuberculosis is not very surprising. This shows the importance of pasteurization, where the milk is heated to a particular temperature and subsequent cooled. This process is effective in killing numerous lethal microorganisms.

There are certain groups of bacteria, which do not belong to the Mycobacterium species. They live in conjunction with other bacteria and are generally harmless. When conditions are favorable, these can cause “atypical tuberculosis”. The symptoms are similar to tuberculosis but the diagnosis and treatment is quite difficult and prolonged.

Mycobacterium tuberculosis travels in air. When the infected person speaks loudly, spits, sneezes or coughs, these bacteria travel in minute air droplets. When a healthy person inhales these infected air droplets, airborne bacteria enter the respiratory system and start multiplying.

Maintaining clean and hygienic conditions, consuming antibiotics and taking timely vaccinations are a few methods for preventing the disease.

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