TB is caused by the bacillus
Mycobacterium tuberculosis and is spread through the air when someone who has infectious TB coughs or sneezes. It may then enter the lungs of someone nearby.
The average person with untreated, infectious TB will infect 10 others per year.
Not everybody who inhales TB germs becomes ill. Someone with normal immunity may reject the infection and stay healthy. When the immune system cannot overcome the infection, the person then becomes ill.
We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.