Tuberculosis

Tuberculosis (TB) is a disease caused by a bacteria called Mycobacterium tuberculosis. This bacteria can attack the lungs, kidneys, spine or brain.

Huron Perth Public Health's role in fighting TB

TB is a reportable disease. Huron Perth Public Health (HPPH) receives reports of all positive skin tests, as well as all suspect or confirmed cases of TB, in Huron and Perth counties. HPPH will:

• Investigate all reports of active or suspected cases of TB
• Ensure required follow up has been done on all reported positive TB skin tests
• Provide free TB medication for prophylaxis and treatment
• Provide information and advice on the management of latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI) and Active TB cases to healthcare providers

TB infection vs TB disease

Tuberculosis infection is also called latent tuberculosis infection or LTBI. If you have LTBI, you are not sick and cannot spread TB to others. Active tuberculosis disease, in severe cases, may lead to death if untreated. Both latent (inactive) and active TB can be treated with antibiotics. These are prescribed by your healthcare provider and are provided free of charge by HPPH.

If you have active TB disease, you may be asked to isolate yourself from others so you do not spread the disease.

TB skin testing

Learn more about TB skin testing