World TB Day - 24 March 2024

Tuberculosis (TB)

Tuberculosis (TB) is an infection that usually affects the lungs. It can be treated with antibiotics but can be serious if not treated. There's a vaccine that helps protect some people who are at risk from TB.

Symptoms of tuberculosis (TB) usually come on gradually.

Common symptoms include:

  • a cough that lasts more than 3 weeks – you may cough up mucus (phlegm) or mucus with blood in it
  • feeling tired or exhausted
  • a high temperature or night sweats
  • loss of appetite
  • weight loss
  • feeling generally unwell.

If TB has spread to another part of your body such as your glands (lymph nodes), bones or brain, you may also have other symptoms, including:

  • swollen glands
  • body aches and pains
  • swollen joints or ankles
  • tummy or pelvic pain
  • constipation
  • dark or cloudy pee
  • a headache
  • being sick
  • feeling confused
  • a stiff neck
  • a rash on the legs, face or other part of the body.

Tuberculosis (TB) - NHS (www.nhs.uk)

World TB Day 2024 Campaign: YES! WE CAN #ENDTB! (who.int)

Tuberculosis - the disease, its treatment and prevention - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)