Frequently Asked Questions on Tuberculosis

Tuberculosis is a contagious bacterial infection caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis that primarily affects the lungs.

TB is typically transmitted through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes, releasing bacteria into the environment.

Common symptoms include persistent cough, chest pain, weight loss, fatigue, fever, and night sweats.

TB is diagnosed through a combination of chest X-rays, sputum tests, and bronchoscopy to detect the presence of the bacteria.

Yes, tuberculosis is treatable with a combination of antibiotics over a specific duration, usually ranging from six to nine months, depending on the type and severity of the infection. However, a patient having drug-resistant TB might have to take treatment up to 2 years.