What is Tuberculosis (TB)? Tuberculosis (TB) is a bacterial infection caused by a germ called Mycobacterium tuberculosis. The bacteria usually attack the lungs, but they can also damage other parts of the body. TB spreads through the air when a person with TB of the lungs or larynx coughs, sneezes or talks near others for a long period of time.  Persons who breathe in air containing TB germs can become infected with TB.  Symptoms of TB in the lungs may include ·  A bad cough that lasts 3 weeks or longer ·  Involuntary weight loss · Coughing up blood or mucus · Weakness or fatigue ·  Fever and chills ·  Night sweats If not treated properly, TB can be deadly. You can usually cure active TB by taking several medicines for a long period of time. People with TB Infection can take medicine so that they do not develop TB Disease. TB Fact Sheet BCG Vaccine TB Infection and TB Disease Tuberculosis Presentation