Epidemiology and Control Strategy of Tuberculosis at Guelma Province of Northeastern Algeria

Abstract

Background: Tuberculosis (TB) is a severe infectious disease that has significant adverse effects on the human body. In recent years, TB infections have re-emerged, with numerous cases recorded in various regions worldwide. This poses a major public health challenge for healthcare agencies. Objective: We aim to analyze positive cases recorded in the "TB Diseases Statement Register," understand the epidemiology of TB, and assess its evolution. Methodology: This retrospective study was conducted in Guelma Province, northeast Algeria, from 2010 to 2013. Over the past decades, TB infection rates in Guelma have shown a bell-shaped fluctuation trend. Results: The disease primarily affects adults aged 16 to 45 years. A significant difference was observed in infection rates based on geographical location, sex, age, and the bacterial site of infection (internal versus external pulmonary). Conclusion: Despite the implementation of the TB-DOTS (Tuberculosis Directly Observed Treatment Short-course) program in Algeria to control the disease, new strategies should be adopted to further reduce TB cases. Bangladesh Journal of Infectious Diseases, June 2026;13(1):8-13