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Frequently Asked Questions - About Tuberculosis (TB)

How do I become infected? A person has to come into direct contact with someone with Tuberculosis (TB) Disease and inhale germs spread through the air through coughing, sneezing, talking and spitting.

Does Tuberculosis only infect the lungs? No,while it commonly infects the lungs, it can infect other parts of the body including: heart, brain, bone, spine, stomach, kidneys, and fallopian tubes.

Can I be infected and not develop the disease? Yes, the bacteria can live in the body for years without ever developing into Tuberculosis (TB) Disease.

Can I be infected with Tuberculosis and not know it? Yes, people infected with Tuberculosis (TB) generally have no outward signs or symptoms of the disease.

What's the risk of being infected with Tuberculosis (TB) if I don't have symptoms or may never develop the disease? If at any time your immune system is compromised, so that your body cannot fight infection, you are at high risk for developing Tuberculosis (TB) Disease, which is highly contagious and can be deadly.

Is there a cure for Tuberculosis? Yes, but it can only be cured with medication.