Tuberculosis
Also known as: TB, Kshay Rog
Tuberculosis is a bacterial infection, mainly of the lungs, spread through the air. It is curable with a full course of medicines, which are free under India national TB programme.
Symptoms
- Cough for more than 2 weeks
- Fever, especially in the evening
- Night sweats
- Weight loss
- Coughing up blood
Causes
- Mycobacterium tuberculosis
Risk factors
- Close contact with a TB patient
- HIV
- Diabetes
- Malnutrition
- Smoking
Complications
- Drug-resistant TB
- Spread to other organs
Treatment overview
A 6-month or longer course of multiple TB medicines taken daily without missing doses, available free at government centres.
Prevention
- BCG vaccine at birth
- Early diagnosis and treatment of patients
- Good ventilation
When to see a doctor
If you have a cough for more than 2 weeks.
Vaccines
Specialists who treat it
Frequently asked questions
What are the symptoms of Tuberculosis?
Cough for more than 2 weeks, Fever, especially in the evening, Night sweats, Weight loss, Coughing up blood
What causes Tuberculosis?
Mycobacterium tuberculosis
How is Tuberculosis treated?
A 6-month or longer course of multiple TB medicines taken daily without missing doses, available free at government centres.
How can Tuberculosis be prevented?
BCG vaccine at birth, Early diagnosis and treatment of patients, Good ventilation
Medically reviewed by
Medical review pending
Last updated
9 October 2026
Sources
- World Health Organization fact sheets
- ICMR and MoHFW national guidelines
- National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC)
This information is for general awareness and does not replace advice from a qualified doctor. Do not start, stop or change any medicine without medical advice.