Website Feedback

Was this page helpful?
I did not find this page helpful because the content on the page (check all that apply):
CAPTCHA This question tests whether you are a human visitor and prevents automated spam submissions.

Banner image by Dan Gold on Unsplash

Page last reviewed: October 20, 2023

Tuberculosis Control

Man sitting at home in a wheelchair

Our mission is to reduce the prevalence of tuberculosis in the greater Houston area. We screen, identify, and treat individuals with TB. We partner with TB providers to ensure optimal TB care.

What is TB Disease?

Tuberculosis (TB) is a disease caused by germs that are spread from person to person through the air when an individual with TB disease of the lungs or throat coughs, sneezes, speaks, or sings. TB disease usually affects the lungs, but it can also spread to other parts of the body, such as kidneys, spine, eyes, and even the brain (especially in children). TB disease does not discriminate; it can affect anyone. A person with TB can die if they do not get treatment; however, properly treated, TB can be cured.

Tuberculosis in Houston

The City of Houston, Harris County, Texas is a large metropolitan area with an estimated population of 2,200,000. Tuberculosis continues to be a health problem in Houston while continuing on a downward trend.

TB personal stories

Anyone can get TB. TB knows no borders, and people here in the United States are suffering from TB. These stories highlight the personal experiences of people who were diagnosed and treated for latent TB infection and TB disease, as well as the work of TB control professionals.

What are the symptoms of TB disease?

The symptoms include:

  • Cough lasting two or more weeks
  • Coughing up blood
  • Chest pain when coughing
  • Night sweats, chills, fever
  • Weight loss
  • Loss of appetite

What is TB infection?

A person with TB infection usually:

  • Feels healthy
  • Has no signs of illness
  • May test positive on a TB skin test or blood test
  • Cannot infect other people
  • Might develop TB disease if their immune system becomes weak