A persistent cough should not be taken lightly. To determine whether it is TB or pneumonia, the right tests are needed.

For TB, the examinations may include the Mantoux Test, TB Molecular Rapid Test (TCM), IGRA (Interferon Gamma Release Assay), and a Chest X-ray to look for characteristic findings in the lungs.

Meanwhile, pneumonia can be detected through a Chest X-ray, Sputum Culture, and PCR Swab to identify whether the cause is bacterial or viral.

Early detection is important. The sooner it is identified, the more appropriate the treatment can be. Do not delay getting checked if symptoms appear.