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Latent TB Infection

Not everyone who becomes infected with tuberculosis becomes sick with the disease itself. This is because the body's immune system is able to keep the number of TB germs low enough to prevent the active disease from developing. The infection at this point is called latent TB infection.

• No symptoms (don't feel sick)
• Cannot spread the infection to others
• Diagnosed with a positive TB skin test or a positive interferon gamma release assay (IGRA) test
• Up to 10% can develop into active TB disease
• Treatment available to prevent active TB disease

Understanding Tuberculosis

Commonly Asked Questions

Additional Information