7 ways families can support loved ones living with TB
The South African Department of Health has released seven guidelines for families to support loved ones undergoing tuberculosis treatment. The advice focuses on medication adherence, emotional support, and managing potential side effects.
Why it matters
Providing practical support strategies can improve treatment outcomes and reduce the global burden of tuberculosis.
Updated Oct. 1, 2026, 3 p.m. | By Poelano Malema
The Department of Health has shared seven practical ways families can support loved ones who are living with tuberculosis (TB).
Tuberculosis remains a major health concern globally. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately two billion people have been infected with TB. In 2024, an estimated 1.23 million people died from the disease globally.
The good news is that TB is treatable and curable.
In South Africa, an estimated 270,000 people developed TB in 2023.
Knowing that someone close to you is suffering from TB can be difficult, but the support of family and friends can go a long way in helping them through their treatment.
Some of the symptoms people with TB may experience include a bad cough that lasts for three weeks or longer, chest pain, weight loss, loss of appetite, fever and night sweats.
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