Tuberculosis

 TUBERCULOSIS Tuberculosis (TB) is a contagious infection that usually attacks your lungs. It can also spread to other parts of your body, like your brain and spine. A type of bacteria called Mycobacterium tuberculosis causes it. Can tuberculosis be cured? In the 20th century, TB was a leading cause of death in the United States. Today, most cases are cured with antibiotics. But it takes a long time. You have to take medications for at least 6 to 9 months Tuberculosis Types . Latent TB. You have the germs in your body, but your immune system keeps them from spreading. You don’t have any symptoms, and you’re not contagious . Active TB. The germs multiply and make you sick. You can spread the disease to others. Ninety percent active cases in adults come from a latent TB infection. Tuberculosis Signs and Symptoms Latent TB doesn’t have symptoms. A skin or blood test can tell if you have it. Signs of active TB disease include: A cough that lasts more than 3 weeks Chest pai...