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Researchers warn drug-resistant TB strains could cause worldwide epidemic
By Alicia Wong |
Posted: 24 March 2010 2123 hrs
SINGAPORE : It may have been overshadowed by other infectious diseases like SARS and influenza, or neglected because a treatment was found decades ago.
But researchers have warned that if new drugs or vaccines for tuberculosis (TB) are not found soon, there could be a real epidemic problem worldwide.
There is an increase in drug-resistant strains, according to the Singapore Immunology Network.
Pharmaceutical company Novartis said the disease can be latent and one may not show any symptoms till the strain is reactivated.
Researchers said that in Singapore, 50 per cent of new cases are from reactivation.
The cases are mostly imported.
The World Health Organisation has already alerted governments of the need for a renewed focus on TB research.
There are about half a million TB cases worldwide involving the drug-resistant strains.
Novartis is now testing two compounds.
If successful, it said new drugs could be developed in the next two to three years. - CNA/ms
By Alicia Wong |
Posted: 24 March 2010 2123 hrs
SINGAPORE : It may have been overshadowed by other infectious diseases like SARS and influenza, or neglected because a treatment was found decades ago.
But researchers have warned that if new drugs or vaccines for tuberculosis (TB) are not found soon, there could be a real epidemic problem worldwide.
There is an increase in drug-resistant strains, according to the Singapore Immunology Network.
Pharmaceutical company Novartis said the disease can be latent and one may not show any symptoms till the strain is reactivated.
Researchers said that in Singapore, 50 per cent of new cases are from reactivation.
The cases are mostly imported.
The World Health Organisation has already alerted governments of the need for a renewed focus on TB research.
There are about half a million TB cases worldwide involving the drug-resistant strains.
Novartis is now testing two compounds.
If successful, it said new drugs could be developed in the next two to three years. - CNA/ms
