Tuberculosis: The World's Deadliest Infectious Disease
10.6 million new cases in 2022
Dr. Amadou Diallo
Pulmonologist
In simple terms
Tuberculosis remains a global scourge despite the existence of effective treatment. Persistent cough, night sweats, weight loss: recognizing the signs can save lives.
An ancient disease still relevant today
Tuberculosis (TB) is caused by the Koch's bacillus (Mycobacterium tuberculosis). It is transmitted by airborne route when an infected person coughs or sneezes. In 2022, estimates suggest that 10.6 million people developed TB and 1.3 million died from it, making it the deadliest infectious disease ahead of HIV.
Latent vs active tuberculosis
A quarter of the world's population carries the bacillus in a latent form (without symptoms, non-contagious). Approximately 5 to 10% of carriers will develop active TB during their lifetime, especially in cases of immunosuppression (HIV, malnutrition, diabetes).
Diagnosis and treatment
Diagnosis relies on chest X-rays, microscopic examination of sputum, and molecular tests (GeneXpert). Standard treatment lasts 6 months and combines 4 antibiotics. Strict adherence is essential to prevent resistance.
Prevention
The BCG vaccine protects children against severe forms. Screening of close contacts and treatment of latent TB in at-risk individuals are the cornerstones of prevention.
The words explained
Medical terms used above, in everyday language.
- Symptom
- A sign you can feel or see that something is wrong, like pain, tiredness or a rash.
- Diagnosis
- The moment a doctor identifies which illness is causing your symptoms.
- Immune system
- Your body's defence team: cells that fight germs and repair damage.
- Antibiotic
- A medicine that kills bacteria. It does not work against viruses like colds or flu.
- Prevention
- Steps taken before a problem starts, to make it less likely.
- Screening
- A check-up done before you feel ill, to catch a problem early.
When should you see a doctor?
- Your symptoms last more than a few weeks or keep coming back.
- They get worse quickly, or stop you doing everyday things.
- You notice sudden pain, breathing trouble, fainting or bleeding — seek urgent care.
- You already take medication and want to change anything about it.
This article explains general health information. It does not replace advice from your own doctor.
Frequently asked questions
- What is Tuberculosis: The World's Deadliest Infectious Disease?
- Tuberculosis remains a global scourge despite the existence of effective treatment. Persistent cough, night sweats, weight loss: recognizing the signs can save lives.
- What are the main symptoms or signs of Tuberculosis: The World's Deadliest Infectious Disease?
- Common signs vary from person to person. The article above lists the symptoms to watch for, how they progress, and when they need medical attention.
- When should you see a doctor for Tuberculosis: The World's Deadliest Infectious Disease?
- See a doctor if symptoms last more than a few weeks, get worse quickly, stop you doing everyday things, or if you notice sudden pain, breathing trouble, fainting or bleeding.
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