Communicable disease and infectious disease 2
Though many countries have seen declines in their rates of TB since the 1990s, some regions such as Africa, India, Southeast Asia, and South America are still disproportionately affected due to factors such as overcrowding and poor sanitation which create ideal conditions for transmission of the disease. Additionally, it has been observed that those living in poverty or who suffer from HIV/AIDS are more likely to be infected with TB due to weakened immune systems making them less able to fight off the bacterial invader. To combat this problem public health initiatives have implemented measures such as increased education around well-preventative practices and providing free vaccinations for certain populations at high risk for infection.