What Is Tuberculosis and What Causes It?
TB is caused by a bacterium called Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It most commonly affects the lungs, though it can also affect other parts of the body, including the lymph nodes, spine, kidneys, and brain. There are two forms: latent TB, where the bacteria live in the body without causing symptoms or being contagious, and active TB, where the infection causes illness and can be passed on to others.
The NHS has comprehensive guidance on tuberculosis, including how it is diagnosed, treated, and prevented. If you think you may have been exposed to TB, seeking advice as soon as possible is important.
How Is TB Spread From Person to Person?
TB is an airborne infection. It spreads when a person with active pulmonary TB coughs, sneezes, speaks, or sings, releasing tiny droplets containing the bacteria into the air. These droplets can then be inhaled by people nearby. It is important to understand that TB is not spread through casual, brief contact. You cannot catch TB by shaking hands, sharing cutlery, sitting next to someone on public transport, or touching surfaces.
Transmission typically requires prolonged, close contact with someone who has untreated active TB. The most common scenarios include living in the same household as an infected person, sharing a poorly ventilated space over an extended period, or having frequent close contact at work or in a care setting.
Another major accelerant for TB can be smoking. Check our guide on 10 tips to quit smoking if you are struggling to quit your addiction.
Who Is Most at Risk of Catching TB in Birmingham?
Anyone can develop TB, but certain groups face a higher risk. Birmingham has historically had higher rates of TB compared to many other UK cities, though rates have been declining thanks to targeted public health efforts, which makes awareness particularly important for residents. The table below outlines the key risk factors and what you can do if they apply to you.
| Risk Factor | Why It Increases Risk | Recommended Action |
|---|---|---|
| Close contact with an active TB case | Direct, prolonged exposure to airborne bacteria | Seek TB testing promptly |
| Travel to high-prevalence countries | Higher rates of TB in parts of Asia, Africa and Eastern Europe | Speak to a pharmacist before travel |
| Weakened immune system | Less able to fight off or contain infection | Regular health monitoring is advised |
| Living in overcrowded conditions | Greater exposure in confined, poorly ventilated spaces | Ensure good ventilation and seek screening if concerned |
| Working in healthcare or care settings | Greater likelihood of contact with TB cases | Follow occupational health guidance and get vaccinated if eligible |
What Are the Symptoms of TB You Should Know About?
Active TB can develop gradually, and symptoms are sometimes mistaken for other respiratory conditions. The most common signs of pulmonary TB include a persistent cough lasting more than three weeks, coughing up blood or mucus, chest pain, unexplained weight loss, extreme fatigue, night sweats, and a high temperature. Because these symptoms overlap with other illnesses, TB can go undiagnosed for some time without a proper test.
How to Reduce Your Risk of Getting TB
Prevention is a combination of vaccination, good hygiene, prompt diagnosis, and completing treatment where required. Here are the most effective steps you can take:
- ✓ Get the BCG vaccine if you are eligible. The BCG vaccine can offer protection against TB, particularly against severe forms of the disease in children, and is recommended for babies in higher-risk areas, including Birmingham, as well as for people travelling to high-prevalence countries.
- ✓ Ensure good ventilation. TB bacteria spread more easily in enclosed, poorly ventilated spaces. Opening windows and improving airflow in your home or workplace reduces the risk.
- ✓ Seek testing if you have been in close contact with a TB case. Early diagnosis prevents the infection from progressing and reduces the risk of passing it on.
- ✓ Complete any prescribed treatment in full. If you are diagnosed with TB, finishing the full course of antibiotics is essential to prevent drug-resistant strains from developing.
- ✓ Speak to a pharmacist before travelling. If you are visiting a country with high TB rates, get travel health advice beforehand. King’s Pharmacy can help you assess your risk and recommend the appropriate precautions.
Get TB Advice and Health Support at King’s Pharmacy Birmingham
Whether you are looking for guidance on symptoms, travel health advice before visiting a higher-risk country, or help navigating NHS services in Birmingham, our team at King’s Pharmacy is here for you. We offer approachable, professional support and can help point you in the right direction quickly.
If you have concerns about TB or any related health issue, contact the King’s Pharmacy team today or find out more about our TB Vaccine clinics.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can you catch TB from being in the same room as someone?
Brief exposure in a well-ventilated room carries a low risk. TB transmission usually requires prolonged, close contact with someone who has untreated active TB. A short, passing interaction is unlikely to result in infection. The risk is considerably higher in enclosed, poorly ventilated spaces where you spend extended time with an infected person.
Is TB still a problem in Birmingham?
Yes. Birmingham has historically had higher rates of TB compared to many other UK cities, largely due to factors including population density and international travel patterns, though rates have been declining thanks to targeted public health efforts. NHS and public health teams actively monitor and manage cases across the city. If you have any concerns about possible TB exposure or symptoms, speaking to a healthcare professional or visiting King’s Pharmacy for advice is a sensible first step.
Can latent TB turn into active TB?
Yes, it can. Latent TB means the bacteria are present, but the immune system is keeping them under control. If immunity becomes weakened, due to illness, certain medications, or other health conditions, latent TB can reactivate and become active. People diagnosed with latent TB are sometimes offered preventative treatment, particularly if they fall into a higher-risk group.
How long does TB treatment take?
Standard TB treatment in the UK involves taking a combination of antibiotics for a minimum of six months. It is vital that the full course is completed even if you start to feel better, as stopping early can lead to drug-resistant TB, which is significantly harder to treat. Your GP or TB specialist will monitor your progress throughout.
Should I get the BCG vaccine before travelling abroad?
If you have not previously been vaccinated and are planning to travel to a country with high rates of TB, the BCG vaccine may be recommended, particularly if you will be spending time in rural areas or healthcare settings. Speak to our team at King’s Pharmacy in Birmingham for travel health advice tailored to your destination and circumstances.