What is the recommended duration of treatment for a new smear-positive TB case?

The recommended duration of treatment for a new smear-positive tuberculosis (TB) case is typically 6 months. This treatment regimen is based on the World Health Organization's guidelines, which are designed to effectively address and cure the disease while minimizing the risk of developing drug resistance.

The standard treatment involves a combination of specific antibiotics, usually including isoniazid, rifampicin, pyrazinamide, and ethambutol during the initial phase, followed by isoniazid and rifampicin during the continuation phase. The full 6-month course has been proven effective in eliminating the bacteria from the body and preventing relapse when the regimen is followed correctly.

Longer durations, as seen in some other options, may be considered in special cases, such as drug-resistant TB or in patients with additional complications, but for the majority of new smear-positive cases, the 6-month regimen remains the standard and is sufficient to achieve successful treatment outcomes.