Johannesburg – Tuberculosis (TB) may feel like a disease of the past to many people, yet in South Africa, it remains one of the country’s most serious public health challenges.
Despite years of progress in treatment and prevention, TB continues to claim thousands of lives and affect hundreds of thousands of families each year.
In fact, the World Health Organization estimates that around 54,000 people died of TB in South Africa in 2024, while about 249,000 people fell ill with the disease.
While these numbers represent a decline from previous years, showing that the country has made measurable progress, there are still thousands of people with TB who remain undiagnosed and untreated, continuing the cycle of transmission in communities.
“As a country, we have made important strides in improving TB diagnosis and treatment outcomes, but the disease remains a significant health threat,” said Dr. Themba Hadebe, Clinical Executive at Bonitas.
“Continued awareness, early testing, and access to appropriate care are critical to reducing the number of people who become seriously ill or die from TB.”
Early detection and prevention remain key
The disease is caused by bacteria that spread through the air when a person with active TB coughs, sneezes or speaks, making early detection and treatment essential to limiting its spread.
The most common symptom is a persistent cough that lasts for two weeks or longer, sometimes accompanied by blood or mucus.
Other warning signs may include fever, night sweats, fatigue, unexplained weight loss, and chest pain.
Because TB can develop gradually, some people may not recognise the symptoms immediately or may attribute them to other illnesses.
“This is why regular screening plays a crucial role in preventing the disease from spreading,” stated Hadebe.
“TB screening services are widely available in South Africa through public clinics, hospitals, and private healthcare providers, and people who are at higher risk, including those living with HIV, diabetes, or other conditions that weaken the immune system, are encouraged to screen more regularly.
“Diagnostic tests such as sputum tests or chest X-rays can help confirm the presence of TB and ensure treatment begins as soon as possible.”
Prevention also extends to everyday practices.
Because TB spreads through the air, opening windows and doors, allowing fresh air to circulate, and practising good respiratory hygiene, such as covering the mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, are simple but effective steps that help limit the spread of infection.
Addressing stigma to strengthen the response
Beyond medical treatment and screening, the stigma and misinformation surrounding TB are another barrier that continues to undermine TB control efforts.
Many people still hesitate to test for TB or disclose their diagnosis because they fear judgement from others. This reluctance can delay treatment and allow the disease to spread further.
It’s important that people are educated on the fact that TB is both treatable and curable, and contracting the disease is not a reflection of personal failure.
When communities understand this, people are more likely to seek help early and adhere to treatment.
“Medical schemes, healthcare providers and communities all have a role to play in ensuring people feel supported rather than judged when they seek care,” said Hadebe.
“Our focus as a medical scheme is on encouraging preventative care and ensuring members have access to the screenings and health assessments that help detect risks early.”
A broader focus on preventative health can also play an important role in strengthening the country’s response to diseases such as TB.
Regular health screenings help people better understand their overall health and identify conditions, such as diabetes, that can weaken the immune system and increase vulnerability to TB.
For Bonitas members, this preventative approach is supported through access to annual wellness screenings that measure key health indicators such as blood pressure, cholesterol, blood glucose, and body mass index.
Members can also complete online health assessments through the Bonitas Member App or the Member Zone, which provide personalised health insights and recommendations and can encourage people to seek medical advice sooner when symptoms arise.
While progress against TB in South Africa is encouraging, the fight is far from over.
TB Awareness Month serves as an important reminder that everyone has a role to play in protecting their own health and that of their communities.
Recognising symptoms early, seeking testing when needed, and supporting those undergoing treatment can make a meaningful difference in slowing the spread of the disease.
