Ireland’s Health Service Executive (HSE) has issued an urgent warning that a specific type of cough could signal the world’s deadliest infectious disease, tuberculosis. The warning comes on World Tuberculosis Day 2025 and highlights the need for global commitment and action to eradicate the disease.
According to the HSE, over 200 cases of TB were reported in Ireland last year, with nearly double the World Health Organization’s End TB Strategy target. The country’s incidence rate is still higher than it should be, despite progress made in recent decades.
TB affects primarily the lungs but can spread to other parts of the body. It is most often spread through the air when an infectious person coughs, sneezes, talks or sings. The HSE urges anyone experiencing a persistent cough lasting more than three weeks to consult a doctor.
Symptoms of TB include fever, night sweats, weight loss, and blood in the sputum. Tuberculosis is both preventable and curable with early detection playing a key role in stopping its spread. However, vulnerable populations such as those living in overcrowded conditions or with limited access to healthcare are disproportionately affected.
The HSE emphasizes the importance of awareness and urgent medical intervention, stating that no one is safe until everyone is safe. Ireland’s Health Protection Surveillance Centre highlights that while there has been a decline in TB incidence, more work needs to be done to achieve the WHO End TB Strategy target of an 80% reduction by 2030.
Ireland’s first National TB Strategy sets out a collaborative approach to TB control and aims to remove barriers to accessing TB care to reduce health inequities. The fight against tuberculosis is ongoing, with the HSE urging everyone to take action to prevent and control the spread of this deadly disease.
Source: https://www.corkbeo.ie/news/local-news/hse-issues-urgent-warning-cough-31268388