Tuberculosis (TB) is caused by a bacterium called Mycobacterium tuberculosis. The bacteria usually attack the lungs, but TB bacteria can attack any part of the body such as the kidney, spine, and brain. Not everyone infected with TB bacteria becomes sick.

Some people develop TB disease soon after becoming infected (within weeks) before their immune system can fight the TB germs. Other people have latent TB infection and may get sick years later, when their immune system becomes weak for another reason. Treating latent TB infection is effective in preventing TB disease.

Symptoms

TB disease in the lungs may cause symptoms such as:

  • Cough that lasts three weeks or longer
  • Pain in the chest
  • Coughing up blood or sputum (phlegm from deep inside the lungs)

TB can also affect other parts of the body, such as the brain, kidneys, or spine. Other symptoms depend on the part of the body that is affected.

Additional symptoms include weakness or fatigue, weight loss, loss of appetite, chills, fever, and sweating at night. People who have a latent TB infection do not feel sick, do not have any symptoms, and cannot spread TB to others.

TB Tests for Work or School

The Florida Department of Health in Martin County is providing tuberculosis testing by appointment. Staff administer QuantiFERON (QFT), a blood test to detect a latent or active infection. Test results are available in a few days.

For fees and to schedule an appointment, call 772-221-4000.