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Living > Public Health, Safety

Tuberculosis

Tuberculosis in Niagara

In the past 10 years, the incidence of active tuberculosis cases in Niagara has decreased, but still exists. Recognition of World tuberculosis day is important to increase the community's awareness of the disease in order to reduce the incidence of tuberculosis everywhere.

Everyone can do something to stop tuberculosis and every individual's action counts. Tuberculosis is a reportable disease. Our role at Public Health is to:

  • ensure all cases of tuberculosis are fully investigated
  • work with health care professionals in managing tuberculosis cases
  • provide education to client, families, and general public
  • ensure client's access to free medication
  • monitor compliance with medication routines through directly-observed therapy(DOT)

Tuberculosis in Canada

While the dangers of tuberculosis may not seem great in Canada, each year brings 1,600 new diagnoses of tuberculosis in Canada. Approximately 70% of these cases originate from outside of Canada, many originate within Canada. Those most at risk include:

  • people born in or traveling to countries where tuberculosis is common
  • people with an Aboriginal background
  • homeless people
  • alcoholics
  • people who work or live in a prison or jail
  • people who work with any of the above high-risk groups (i.e., health care workers)

General Information about Tuberculosis

For Health Care Professionals

Additional Information

For more information about Tuberculosis, contact the Infectious Diseases Program, Niagara Region Public Health at 905-688-8248 ext. 7330 or toll free 888-505-6074.

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