Tuberculosis

Tuberculosis (TB) is an infectious disease caused by the bacteria Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It can spread through the air when a person with active TB coughs, sneezes, or speaks. TB most commonly affects the lungs but can also affect other parts of the body. Symptoms of TB include a persistent cough, fatigue, weight loss, fever, and night sweats. If left untreated, TB can become life-threatening. TB is one of the leading causes of death worldwide, especially in low and middle-income countries. Early diagnosis and treatment is essential for reducing the spread of the disease, and for ensuring better patient outcomes. Treatment is usually a combination of drugs that must be taken over several months. Vaccination can also help protect against TB and decrease the risk of developing the disease.