What you need to know about Tuberculosis (TB)
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
What is TB?
TB is a disease that typically affects the lungs, and sometimes other parts of the body. It can be fatal if left untreated.
How are TB germs spread?
TB germs are spread between people through the air when a person with TB disease of the lungs coughs, sneezes, laughs, or sings. TB germs are NOT spread by sharing silverware or cups, or by sharing saliva when kissing someone.
What are the symptoms of TB?
Symptoms of TB include feeling weak or ill, weight loss, fever, and nights sweats. If the TB disease is in the lungs, it can cause coughing and chest pain. Sometimes, it can cause a person to cough up blood.
What is the difference between TB disease and TB infection?
A person with TB disease will be sick from numerous TB germs active in the body. They will have symptoms of TB disease. They can pass TB germs to others. TB disease can cause permanent damage and even death. Medicines are available to cure TB disease.
A person with TB infection also has TB germs, but they are not sick because there are not many germs in the body, and the germs lie dormant (sleeping). They cannot spread the germs. They should, however, be treated as they could develop TB disease.
What should you do if you have spent time with someone who has TB infection?
You do not need to be tested. A person with latent TB infection cannot spread the TB germs to other people.
What should you do if you have spent time with someone who has TB disease?
You should get tested for TB infection. People with TB disease are most likely to spread the germs to people they spend time with daily.
Who is most likely to get TB?
A person with TB infection has a higher chance of getting TB disease if the person
• Has HIV infection
• Has been recently infected with TB germs (in the last 2 years)
• Has other health problems, like diabetes, that make it hard for the body to fight germs
• Uses alcohol or injects illegal drugs
• Was not treated correctly for TB infection in the past
How can I tell if I have TB?
You can tell whether you have TB by getting a TB skin test or the QuantiFERON® TB Gold (QFT) blood test. A positive reaction to either test means you will likely be given other tests to find out if you have TB infection or TB disease.
Where can I get a TB skin test?
You can get a TB skin test at Cornell Scott-Hill Health Center. Contact the TB program by calling (203) 503-3182.
How is a TB test given?
A healthcare worker uses a small needle to put testing material called tuberculin right under the surface of the skin, usually on the lower inside of the arm. After the test, the patient must return 2 or 3 days later to see if there has been a reaction to the test.
What does a negative TB skin test mean?
A negative test usually means you are not infected. A false negative can sometimes occur if you were recently infected or if your immune system is not working properly.
What does a positive TB skin test mean?
A positive test usually means you have been infected with the TB germs. It does not necessarily mean you have TB disease. Other tests (x-ray, sputum sample) can determine if you have TB disease.
What should I do if I am infected with TB infection or TB disease?
You should get the required follow-up tests. Take medicine as prescribed. TB disease can be treated and cured with proper medication.
If you are concerned about TB infection or TB disease, contact your healthcare professional at Cornell Scott-Hill Health Center.
For more information and resources, visit: www.cdc.gov/tb