Information in simple English

What is tuberculosis?

Tuberculosis (TB) is a severe disease caused by the bacteria (Mycobacterium tuberculosis MTB) that generally affect the lungs but may also affect other parts of body.

 

Latent TB

Also called as inactive TB because the bacteria causing such infection is inactive and show no symptoms. Such type is non contagious. Latent TB can turn into Active TB if not treated.

Active TB 

These infections are apparent. The bacteria multiply and make a person sick. This type is contagious.

 

Symptoms

  • Chronic cough
  • Coughing up blood or mucous.
  • Pain in the chest, or pain during breathing or coughing
  • Weight reduction 
  • Fatigue
  • Fever
  • Sweats at night