It’s Time to Test and Treat Latent Tuberculosis Infection

Progress in fighting TB requires increased efforts to detect and treat latent TB infection (LTBI) in high-risk groups. Here is why:

Latent TB Infection is the Primary Cause of TB Disease

Latent TB Infection

TB Latency

Latent TB means TB bacteria are in the body with no symptoms. If the bacteria become active, LTBI turns into TB disease.

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High-Risk Populations

  • HIV-infected persons
  • Have diabetes
  • Have immune system conditions
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Diagnoses Trends

More than 80% of TB diagnoses are associated with untreated LTBI in high risk populations.

There Are Effective Testing & Treatment Options

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Skin or Blood Testing

A skin test or TB blood test is recommended in people who are at higher risk for being infected with TB bacteria.

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Multiple Treatment Regimens

There are effective treatment regimens available for latent tuberculosis.

Treating High-Risk Patients Helps Prevent TB Disease

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Treating LTBI is a Priority

LTBI affects up to 13 million people in the US

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Treatment Helps Greatly

Completing a treatment regimen for LTBI can reduce risk of TB disease by 90%