Tuberculosis

Globally, 1.25 million people died from TB in 2023.² 1 in 4 people in the world have been infected by bacteria that cause TB. About 5-10% of people infected with TB will develop symptoms and become ill.²

By breathing in droplets from the coughs and sneezes of someone infected with the bacteria that cause the disease.²

You can catch TB almost anywhere, but the majority of new cases are in South-East Asia, the Western Pacific, and Africa (see map).^1,2

In those who do develop symptoms, these can be mild and last for many months. They may include a persistent cough (sometimes with blood), fever, chest pains, night sweats, fatigue and weakness.²

TB can generally be treated with antibiotics. If it’s not treated, it may get worse and can be fatal.² The risk of TB disease can be higher in people whose immune systems are compromised, such as people living with HIV or in people with malnutrition or diabetes.²

You can take the following precautions to help reduce your risk of infection:

• Visit your nearest convenient pharmacy or specialist travel health clinic for a risk assessment before your trip
• Ensure that anyone who has been in contact with someone with TB is checked by their doctor, especially children.