City of El Paso recognizes World Tuberculosis Day
EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) — The City of El Paso's Department of Public Health is reminding the community about the year-round Tuberculosis screenings and services, in recognition of World Tuberculosis Day which lands on Monday, March 24.
The City says World Tuberculosis Day is observed annually to raise awareness about the serious infectious bacterial disease that primarily affects the lungs and can be fatal if left untreated.
The Department of Public Health offers Tuberculosis screenings on a sliding fee scale and accepts insurance, ensuring access to testing and care for all residents. Individuals seeking a screening or more information can contact the Public Health Respiratory Diseases Clinic at (915) 212-6609.
'Tuberculosis is caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis. While it most commonly affects the lungs, it can also impact other parts of the body such as the kidneys, spine, and brain,' the City said.
Tuberculosis is spread through the air when a person with active Tuberculosis disease of the lungs or throat coughs, sneezes, speaks, or sings. People nearby may breathe in the bacteria and become infected, the City said.
The City says common symptoms of pulmonary Tuberculosis include the following:
A cough lasting three weeks or longer
Chest pain
Coughing up blood or phlegm from deep in the lungs
The City says other general Tuberculosis symptoms include the following:
Fatigue or weakness
Weight loss
Loss of appetite
Chills
Fever
Night sweats
For more information about Tuberculosis services and other health screenings, visit EPHealth.com and click on 'TB Control' under the Services tab or call 211.
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
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