How is tuberculosis (TB) spread?
ANSWER
Tuberculosis (TB) is spread through the air, just like a cold or the flu. When someone who’s sick coughs, sneezes, talks, laughs, or sings, tiny droplets that contain the germs are released. If you breathe in these nasty germs, you get infected.
TB is contagious, but it’s not easy to catch. You usually have to spend a lot of time around a person who has it. That’s why it’s often spread among co-workers, friends, and family members.
Tuberculosis germs don’t thrive on surfaces. You can’t get the disease from shaking hands with someone who has it, or by sharing their food or drink.
From: Tuberculosis (TB) WebMD Medical Reference
Reviewed by Sabrina Felson on May 9, 2019
SOURCES:
Brian W. Christman, MD, professor and vice-chair, Vanderbilt University Medical Center; volunteer national spokesperson, American Lung Association.
CDC: “Tuberculosis.”
American Lung Association: “Learn About Tuberculosis.”
Mayo Clinic: “Tuberculosis.”
World Health Organization: “Tuberculosis.”
UpToDate.
SOURCES:
Brian W. Christman, MD, professor and vice-chair, Vanderbilt University Medical Center; volunteer national spokesperson, American Lung Association.
CDC: “Tuberculosis.”
American Lung Association: “Learn About Tuberculosis.”
Mayo Clinic: “Tuberculosis.”
World Health Organization: “Tuberculosis.”
UpToDate.
THIS TOOL DOES NOT PROVIDE MEDICAL ADVICE. It is intended for general informational purposes only and does not address individual circumstances. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment and should not be relied on to make decisions about your health. Never ignore professional medical advice in seeking treatment because of something you have read on the WebMD Site. If you think you may have a medical emergency, immediately call your doctor or dial 911.
This tool does not provide medical advice. See additional information.