Describe following Communicable Diseases in terms of their signs and symptoms(s/s) and treatment:- (a) Childhood Tuberculosis (b) Hepatitis B

(a) Childhood Tuberculosis:

Signs and Symptoms:

1. Fever: Persistent or intermittent fever is a common symptom of childhood tuberculosis (TB).
2. Cough: Children with TB may have a persistent cough that lasts for more than two weeks.
3. Weight Loss: Unexplained weight loss or failure to thrive despite adequate caloric intake may occur.
4. Fatigue: Children with TB may experience fatigue and weakness.
5. Loss of Appetite: Decreased appetite and poor feeding are common symptoms.
6. Night Sweats: Profuse sweating, especially at night, is a characteristic symptom of TB.
7. Respiratory Symptoms: Children may experience respiratory symptoms such as chest pain, difficulty breathing, and wheezing.

Treatment:

1. Antibiotic Therapy: Treatment for childhood TB typically involves a combination of antibiotics for an extended duration, usually six to nine months. The most commonly used antibiotics include isoniazid, rifampicin, pyrazinamide, and ethambutol.
2. Directly Observed Therapy (DOT): To ensure adherence to treatment and prevent the development of drug-resistant TB, children are often provided with directly observed therapy, where a healthcare worker or trained observer ensures that the child takes their medications as prescribed.
3. Nutritional Support: Nutritional supplementation may be recommended to support the child's growth and development, especially if there is evidence of malnutrition.
4. Management of Complications: If complications such as respiratory distress or severe malnutrition occur, appropriate supportive care and interventions are provided.
5. Monitoring: Children undergoing treatment for TB require regular monitoring of their symptoms, weight, and response to treatment. Chest X-rays and other diagnostic tests may be repeated to assess treatment efficacy and detect any complications.

(b) Hepatitis B:

Signs and Symptoms:

1. Jaundice: Yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice) is a common symptom of hepatitis B infection.
2. Fatigue: Children with hepatitis B may experience fatigue and weakness.
3. Abdominal Pain: Some children may complain of abdominal pain or discomfort.
4. Nausea and Vomiting: Nausea and vomiting are common symptoms, especially in acute hepatitis B infection.
5. Loss of Appetite: Decreased appetite and weight loss may occur.
6. Dark Urine: Urine may appear dark in color due to the presence of bilirubin.
7. Pale Stools: Stools may become pale or clay-colored.
8. Fever: Fever may be present, especially in acute infection.

Treatment:

1. Supportive Care: Treatment for hepatitis B in children focuses on providing supportive care to relieve symptoms and promote recovery. This may include bed rest, adequate hydration, and nutritional support.
2. Antiviral Therapy: In some cases, antiviral medications such as interferon-alpha or oral antiviral drugs like entecavir or tenofovir may be prescribed to suppress viral replication and reduce the risk of liver damage.
3. Liver Function Monitoring: Children with hepatitis B require regular monitoring of liver function tests to assess disease progression and treatment response.
4. Vaccination: Children who are not infected with hepatitis B should receive the hepatitis B vaccine to prevent infection. Vaccination is recommended for all infants and children as part of routine immunization schedules.
5. Prevention of Transmission: It is essential to educate families and caregivers about measures to prevent the spread of hepatitis B infection, including practicing good hygiene, avoiding sharing personal items such as toothbrushes and razors, and ensuring adherence to universal precautions in healthcare settings.

Effective management of childhood tuberculosis and hepatitis B requires a comprehensive approach that addresses both the symptoms and underlying causes of the diseases, along with supportive care and prevention strategies to minimize complications and transmission. Regular monitoring and follow-up are essential to assess treatment response and ensure optimal outcomes for affected children.