At What Stage Is Tuberculosis Contagious?
Tuberculosis (TB) is a serious infectious disease caused by bacteria called Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It mainly affects the lungs, but it can also affect other parts of the body. TB is spread through the air when a person with active TB disease coughs, sneezes, speaks, or sings.
When is TB Contagious?
TB is contagious only when a person has active TB disease. This means the bacteria are multiplying in their body and they can spread the disease to others. People with latent TB infection are not contagious because they don't have active TB disease.
How to Know if You Have Active TB Disease
The most common symptom of active TB disease is a persistent cough that lasts for three weeks or longer. Other symptoms include:
- Coughing up blood or phlegm
- Chest pain
- Weakness or fatigue
- Weight loss
- Loss of appetite
- Fever
- Night sweats
How to Prevent the Spread of TB
It's important to know that most people with latent TB infection never develop active TB disease. However, if you have latent TB infection, you can take medicine to prevent it from becoming active.
Here are some ways to prevent the spread of TB:
- Get tested for TB: If you have any symptoms of TB, see your doctor to get tested.
- Take your medication as prescribed: If you are diagnosed with active TB disease, it's important to take all of your medication as prescribed.
- Cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze: This will help to prevent the spread of germs.
- Avoid close contact with people who have active TB disease: This is especially important for people who are at high risk of getting TB, such as people with weakened immune systems.
In Conclusion
TB is contagious only when a person has active TB disease. It is important to be aware of the symptoms of active TB disease and to take steps to prevent the spread of the disease. If you have any concerns about TB, talk to your doctor.
