If you have this certain type of cough, you should see a doctor urgently as one type of illness is on the rise.
Cases of tuberculosis have increased in England, according to data from earlier this year, reports The Mirror.
While coughs are common in the winter months, this year you should make sure you monitor your cough if you have one.
If it lasts longer than you think it should, this could mean you should book a doctor’s appointment.
In February, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) said in its annual tuberculosis (TB) report that cases rose by over 10% in 2023 compared to 2022.
The UKHSA said: “The rise signals a rebound of TB cases to above the pre-COVID-19-pandemic numbers.”
The health body said England is a “low incidence country for TB” but that the “the current trajectory takes the UK further from the pathway to meet World Health Organisation (WHO) 2035 elimination targets”.
An investigation into the reasons was also announced.
Dr Esther Robinson, involved with TB surveillance with the UKHSA, said a certain type of cough can be an indicator of TB.
As reported by MEN, she said: “We are concerned that TB cases have increased in some parts of England.
“TB is curable and preventable but despite significant progress towards elimination in recent years, the disease remains a serious public health issue.
“With treatment, most people will make a full recovery, so it’s very important those with symptoms are tested for TB and appropriate treatment is started promptly, both for the individual and to prevent transmission.”
A cough of over three weeks containing mucus should prompt you to pay a visit to your doctor.
The NHS lists the following symptoms as potential indicators of TB:
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A cough that lasts more than 3 weeks – you may cough up mucus (phlegm) or mucus with blood in it
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Feeling tired or exhausted
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A high temperature or night sweats
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Loss of appetite
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Weight loss
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Feeling generally unwell
If TB has spread to your bones, brain, glands or other parts of your body, you may experience: