TB transmission

How is TB spread?

TB is spread through the air when someone with infectious TB disease coughs or sneezes. Another person may then inhale the TB bacteria into their lungs. People cannot get infected with TB by handshakes, sitting on a toilet seat, or sharing dishes with someone who has TB.

How contagious is TB?

TB is not as contagious as other diseases such as the flu or chickenpox. To get infected, a person usually has to spend many hours every day with the person with infectious TB disease. People who live in overcrowded housing with poor air circulation may be more at risk of getting TB infection.

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[Tuberculosis FACT SHEET - Index]