Tasks of the public health department
- The basis for our actions is the Infection Protection Act (IfSG), here §19 IfSG.
- We record new cases of tuberculosis requiring treatment on the basis of notifications according to § 6 and § 7 IfSG by treating physicians, hospitals, laboratories and others. We care for patients and monitor the course of the disease. If there are problems with the therapy, we take care of the regular intake of medication (DOT, directly observed therapy), for example.
- We identify possible contact persons and investigate whether they have been infected (environmental testing). We use various tests for this purpose, e.g. tuberculin skin tests and blood tests for specific parameters. An X-ray examination of the lungs is often necessary for a precise diagnosis.
- We monitor patients after they have completed treatment, e.g. through annual X-ray checks.
- In addition, our socio-medical staff advise patients on therapy, behavior, support options, etc. and take care of their social circumstances and environment.
