Overview

The Tuberculosis (TB) Control Clinic works with patients who have TB Disease and TB Infection. Nurse case managers work closely with local hospitals, physicians and the Kansas Department of Health and Environment TB program to help patients access appropriate care.

Services & Fees

Medications for TB Disease and TB Infection are provided at no cost to eligible patients. Additional fees may occur depending on the types of services provided.

Basic TB Facts

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. If not treated properly, TB disease can be fatal.

How TB Spreads

TB is spread through the air from one person to another. The TB bacteria are put into the air when a person with TB disease of the lungs or throat coughs, sneezes, speaks or sings. People nearby may breathe in these bacteria and become infected.

TB is NOT spread by:

• Shaking someone's hand
• Sharing food or drink
• Touching bed linens or toilet seats
• Sharing a toothbrush
• Kissing

TB Infection and TB Disease

Not everyone infected with TB bacteria becomes sick. TB Infection occurs when a person breathes in TB bacteria but does not become sick. They can develop TB Disease soon after being exposed or years later. Persons with TB disease are sick and can spread the disease to other people.

Symptoms of TB are:

• A bad cough that lasts 3 weeks or longer
• Pain in the chest
• Coughing up blood or sputum
• Weakness or fatigue
• Weight loss
• No appetite
• Chills
• Fever
• Sweating at night

TB Risk Factors

Once a person is infected with TB bacteria, the chance of developing TB disease is higher if the person:

• Has HIV infection
• Has recently been infected with TB bacteria (in the last two years)
• Has other health problems, like diabetes, that make it hard for the body to fight bacteria.
• Abuses alcohol or uses illegal drugs
• Was not treated correctly for TB infection in the past

Source: Centers for Disease Control