The Hidden Germ: Tuberculosis and Latent TB Infection

Tuberculosis (TB) is a bacterial disease that spreads from person to person. According the the WHO’s (World Health Organization) 2024 report — Tuberculosis is the leading cause of death worldwide.

There are two forms of the disease:

• Active TB Disease
• Latent TB Infection

Active TB Disease:

• The germs are multiplying in the body.
• A person feels sick (Cough that lasts 3 weeks or longer, fever, weight loss, night sweats).
• TB can spread from one person to another through the air and remain in the air for hours

Latent TB Infection:

• Latent means there are a small number of TB germs in a person’s body, but they aren’t making the person sick right now.
• The bacteria are inactive but are still in the body.
• The person has no symptoms, feels healthy, and cannot spread TB to others.
• LTBI can become active TB disease in the future if not treated.

Tuberculosis and Latent TB Infection

Important Fact

TB germs are spread through the air when a person with active TB disease in their lungs or throat:

• Coughs
• Speaks
• Laughs
• Sings

If another person breathes in those germs, they might get infected.

Who is at High Risk?

• People living with HIV or other immune conditions.
• People born in or frequently travel to countries where TB is common.
• People in crowded living conditions (shelters, prisons, group homes).
• Close contacts of someone with active TB.
• People who use or inject drugs.

Signs and Symptoms

• Cough that lasts over 3 weeks
• Coughing up blood
• Fever, night sweats, fatigue
• Unexplained weight loss, loss of appetite
• Chest pain

See a healthcare provider right away if you have any of these symptoms.

How to Prevent TM and LTBI

• Get Tested
• Take treatment for inactive TB
• Cover Your Mouth when coughing
• Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle

Remember – TB is preventable and treatable

Source: CDC, Wisconsin Dept. of Health, National Library of Medicine NIH