News > All those diagnosed with TB should get tested for COVID-19 says health ministry

All those diagnosed with TB should get tested for COVID-19 says health ministry

Tuberculosis and COVID-19 are infectious diseases, which primarily attack the lungs and present with similar symptoms of cough, fever, and difficulty in breathing. 

Tuberculosis is associated with a 2.1-fold increased risk of severe COVID-19 disease, the health ministry said on Wednesday, recommending that all newly-diagnosed tuberculosis patients or those currently on treatment should be tested for COVID-19 and vice versa.