Drug resistant Tuberculosis has been found among caravan members on the Mexican border. Is this a health threat we need to address?

The Director of the American Physicians Association, Dr. Jane Orient, says this is real threat. She said that even though the drug resistant TB may be latent in individuals, because they have it in their bloodstream they can break out with the disease at any time.

Tuberculosis, according to Web MD, is a contagious infection that attacks the lungs. It can also spread to other parts of the body, like the brain and spine. In the 1900's, tuberculosis was the leading cause of death in the United States. Today, even though TB is curable, you have to take meds for 6 to 9 months, and the strain among caravan members is drug resistant.

The following are symptoms of Tuberculosis:

If you experience any of these symptoms, see your doctor to get tested. Get medical help right away if you have chest pain.

A cough that lasts more than 3 weeks
Chest pain
Coughing up blood
Feeling tired all the time
Night sweats
Chills
Fever
Loss of appetite
Weight loss

There are no symptoms for latent tuberculosis.