
The Critical Intersection of Tuberculosis and HIV: Lessons from Tugela Ferry
This analysis examines the profound intersection between tuberculosis (TB) and HIV, drawing on the landmark Tugela Ferry study in South Africa. The research revealed alarming rates of drug-resistant TB among HIV-positive patients, with 221 multi-drug resistant (MDR-TB) and 53 extensively drug-resistant (XDR-TB) cases among 544 TB patients. All tested XDR-TB patients were HIV-positive, resulting in a 98% mortality rate within an average of 25 days. This article explores the epidemiological factors, clinical implications, and global health responses to this deadly synergy, underscoring the urgent need for integrated care and advanced diagnostics.














































