Home World World Tuberculosis Day: Understanding Tuberculosis and Getting Tested Locally

World Tuberculosis Day: Understanding Tuberculosis and Getting Tested Locally

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The text below is in french and talks about the prevalence of tuberculosis in France and around the world. In Creuse, cases are rare but screening is essential. Health workers at the Sainte-Feyre center emphasize the symptoms, the importance of treatment, and the free services available to prevent and support patients.

Tuberculosis is often seen as a disease of the past but still exists, especially in certain regions of the world and in France. On the occasion of World Tuberculosis Day on March 24th, professionals from the anti-tuberculosis center in Sainte-Feyre highlighted local issues.

Around the table, Agnès Pateloux Alanore, a nurse, Béatrice Laverdan, a tuberculosis reference nurse, and Céline Marquant, a health manager, shared their field experience. “Tuberculosis is an old disease, but it still circulates in Creuse,” they said.

Historically, the Sainte-Feyre facility was a sanatorium, which explains the current focus on screening and monitoring. In Creuse, the incidence remains low with 3.5 cases per 100,000 inhabitants in 2023. Eight cases were reported in 2024 compared to just one in 2025.

On a global scale, the disease still causes more than 1.5 million deaths per year. “It is actually the movement of populations that allows tuberculosis to continue circulating,” noted a reference nurse. In France, Île-de-France remains the most affected region.

Symptoms, screening, and treatment: act quickly

Dr. Philippe Slaouti, a pulmonologist and oncologist, detailed the warning signs over the phone. “General state alteration, weight loss, fever, night sweats, cough,” he said. In some cases, blood spitting may occur.

In case of doubt, it is recommended to consult quickly. Diagnosis relies on a chest X-ray. “Tuberculosis is very well treatable,” he emphasized. According to the specialist, nearly 100% recovery is achievable with correct treatment adherence.

Professionals stress the importance of the duration of treatment. “If you stop treatment too early, you risk developing antibiotic resistance,” they said.

Prevent and support patients on a daily basis

Screening in Creuse is done by appointment at the Sainte-Feyre medical center. It includes a lung X-ray, blood tests, and sometimes skin tests for young children.

The teams provide essential advice: – Regularly ventilate living areas – Wear a mask in case of respiratory symptoms – Consult quickly when in doubt – Follow the treatment through to the end – Consider vaccinating children when traveling to high-risk areas

“It is a crucial moment for mobilization and awareness,” emphasized Céline Marquant. Consultations are free, including for individuals without social coverage.

Useful contacts: – Anti-Tuberculosis Fight Center (CLAT) – VYV 3 Hearts of Aquitaine Health Facility – Sainte-Feyre (Creuse) – Appointment booking: 05 55 51 41 90

Reminder: World Tuberculosis Day on Tuesday, March 24, 2026.