39 TB cases last year in Rochdale

Bernadine O’Sullivan, Consultant in Public Health, from NHS Heywood, Middleton and Rochdale

As part of World TB Day on 24 March, Rochdale’s residents are being urged to seek advice if they show symptoms of TB.

TB is a major health problem in some parts of the world and still exists in the UK, especially in some major cities. Locally there were 39 TB cases last year in Rochdale Borough - a decrease from 43 cases in 2011 - health chiefs are using World TB Day to encourage people to be aware of typical symptoms of the illness.

Bernadine O’Sullivan, Consultant in Public Health, from NHS Heywood, Middleton and Rochdale said: “Tuberculosis (TB) is a potentially serious health condition which can usually be well managed with a course of medical treatment. Whilst the number of cases in Rochdale is generally low, it is useful for everyone to be aware of the disease to ensure TB is found early and treated.

“TB is a bacterial infection spread through inhaling tiny droplets from the coughs or sneezes of an infected person. It mainly affects the lungs, but it can affect any part of the body.

“Typical symptoms include: a persistent cough of more than three weeks that brings up phlegm which may be bloody, weight loss, night sweats, fever, extreme tiredness and loss of appetite. You should see a GP if you are worried, especially if you have a cough that lasts more than three weeks or if you cough up blood.”