TB is a disease caused by germs spread through the air from one person to another and usually affects the lungs, but may also affect other parts of the body, including the brain, kidneys or spine. Getting TB typically requires many hours of contact with a person who is sick from TB. TB cannot be spread by touching door knobs, tables, utensils or other surfaces.
- Most people who are exposed to TB do not get infected.
- People who are infected might not get sick at all or do not get sick until months or even years later.
- People who are infected cannot give TB to others unless they are sick with symptoms such as cough, fever or night sweats.
- A person who is infected but is not sick can be treated to eliminate the infection and to prevent them from getting sick in the future.
The best way to prevent TB is to learn more about tuberculosis, to get tested if you think you have been exposed, and then to get treated if you test positive.
Additional TB Resources
- Centers for Disease Control TB Information
- Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment TB Information
- Curry International TB Center
- Form I-693
- If you are affected by TB and or would like to learn more about the experiences of TB survivors: We Are TB
- Global TB Global Tuberculosis Programme (who.int)
- TB Drug Development: TB Alliance | Putting science to work for better, faster TB cures
- TB Advocacy Groups: Stop TB USA - Tuberculosis Advocacy; Welcome! – Treatment Action Group
- TB Trials Consortium: TBTC | Research | TB | CDC
Education Services for Professionals and Community-Based Organizations
Denver Health is no longer offering the TB Update and TB Skin Testing Practicum. The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) is in the process of developing a Train-the-Trainer course for the state of Colorado. For scopes of practice regarding who can place, read, and interpret TST tests click here. For any other questions regarding this training, please contact the CDPHE TB program at cdphe_tbinfo@state.co.us or 303-692-2656.
