Tuberculosis FACT SHEETS

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TB and HIV infection

What is the connection between TB and HIV infection?

Tuberculosis (TB) is caused by germs that are spread through the air from person to person. If your body’s defence (immune) system is strong, it can kill the TB germs (bacteria) or stop them from growing. But if your immune system is weak, the TB germs can grow and multiply and you may develop active TB disease. The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) weakens your immune system. So if you have TB and HIV infection, you are at a very high risk of developing active TB disease.

What are the chances of developing active TB disease?

Adults with latent TB infection have about a 10 per cent chance of developing active TB disease in their lifetime. Adults with TB and HIV infection may have up to a 10 per cent risk of developing active TB disease every year.

What should I do if I think I have TB and HIV?

You need to see a doctor who is an expert in this area to find out if you have latent TB infection or active TB disease. Treatment of TB infection or treatment of active TB disease by an expert could save your life!

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