TB, or tuberculosis, is a disease caused by bacteria (germs) called Mycobacterium tuberculosis.  The bacteria can attack any part of your body, but they usually attack the lungs. TB disease was once the leading cause of death in the United States.

TB is spread through the air from one person to another. The bacteria are put into the air when a person with active TB disease of the lungs or throat coughs or sneezes. People nearby may breathe in these bacteria and become infected.

When a person breathes in TB bacteria, the bacteria can settle in the lungs and begin to grow. From there, they can move through the blood to other parts of the body, such as the kidney, spine, and brain.

TB in the lungs or throat can be infectious. This means that the bacteria can be spread to other people. TB in other parts of the body, such as the kidney or spine, is usually not infectious.

People with TB disease are most likely to spread it to people they spend time with every day. This includes family members, friends, and coworkers.

For More Information

CDC TB Information: 
http://www.cdc.gov/nchstp/tb/default.htm

TB Guidelines:
http://www.cdc.gov/nchstp/tb/pubs/mmwrhtml/Maj_guide/List_date.htm

TB Net Teaching Materials:
http://www.tuberculosis.net/

Related Programs and Services

Click here for more information about TB Testing

Ben Franklin TB Control Program