Tuberculosis

Tuberculosis (TB) is a disease caused by a germ called Mycobacterium tuberculosis. TB usually affects the lungs, but it can also affect other parts of the body, such as the brain, the kidneys, or the spine.

Tuberculosis is spread by tiny germs that can float in the air. The TB germs may spray into the air if a person with TB disease coughs, sings or sneezes. The people nearby can breathe TB germs into their lungs and get TB infection. People who have TB infection (not TB disease) cannot spread TB to others. Most people with TB infection will not get sick; however, some people will get sick and have TB disease.

If the TB disease is in your lungs, you may experience:

coughing
cough up mucus or phlegm or blood
have chest pain when you cough or breathe.

If you have TB disease anywhere in your body, you may experience:

have a fever
sweat at night
lose your appetite
lose weight
feel weak
have problems in the part of your body with the TB disease

The risk of being exposed to tuberculosis is very low. If you have been in contact with someone who has active tuberculosis or think you may have, consult your health care provider.

If you plan to travel to countries with high rates of tuberculosis, visit a health care provider or travel health clinic 6 weeks before you leave. If you believe you are at risk of getting tuberculosis, ask about getting a skin test before and after your trip.

Tuberculosis can be cured by taking antibiotics. See your health care provider for treatment options.