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TB Prevention

Five things to know about tuberculosis as it surfaces in Maine and North Carolina

Recent weeks have seen a handful of new Tuberculosis (TB) cases reported in states including Maine, North Carolina and California. While TB is rare in the U.S., even a single active case warrants attention. This article provides an overview of what TB is & how it spreads. TB is caused by a bacterium (Mycobacterium tuberculosis) that typically attacks the lungs, forming lesions called “tubercles,” and can destroy lung tissue — severe disease can lead to respiratory failure.

What to know about tuberculosis as it surfaces in Maine and North Carolina. Who is at risk?

This article reviews key clinical and public health considerations surrounding recent tuberculosis (TB) cases reported in Maine, North Carolina, and California. Although TB remains relatively rare in the United States, it continues to cause more than 1 million deaths annually worldwide and poses ongoing risks, particularly for individuals with weakened immune systems or those who live or work in congregate settings.

TB Testing: Who Needs It, What a Positive Result Means

Tuberculosis (TB), a contagious bacterial infection primarily affecting the lungs, remains a health risk in the U.S. Though cases declined for decades, recent increases — including ~10,347 cases in early data from 2024 — suggest testing and treatment of latent TB is needed more than ever.  Testing is crucial both for diagnosing latent TB (where bacteria are present but symptoms are absent) and active TB disease (which is contagious and manifests symptoms).

Tuberculosis Care: What to Expect

This information sheet outlines the steps in the tuberculosis (TB) care cascade, from diagnosis to treatment completion. It highlights the importance of accurate testing, adherence to treatment, and use of directly observed therapy to ensure successful outcomes and prevent TB transmission.

Treating and Managing Tuberculosis

This webpage outlines treatment approaches for both inactive and active tuberculosis (TB), including medication regimens, side effects, adherence tips, and steps to prevent the spread of TB. It emphasizes the importance of taking TB medications as prescribed to ensure successful recovery and protect others.

TB Diagnosis and Treatment (For Clinicians)

This webpage provides clinical guidance on the diagnosis and treatment of tuberculosis (TB) and latent TB infection (LTBI) in Wisconsin, outlining risk assessment, symptom evaluation, testing methods, and treatment protocols. It includes links to CDC resources and encourages use of state and national tools to support accurate diagnosis and effective care.

NIAID Strategic Plan for Tuberculosis Research 2024 Update

This report outlines the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases' (NIAID) updated strategic plan to combat tuberculosis. It focuses on four key priorities: enhancing fundamental knowledge of TB, advancing diagnostic research, accelerating vaccine development, and supporting strategies to treat and prevent TB.