Are tb bacteria airborne?

1 answer

Yes, tuberculosis (TB) bacteria, specifically Mycobacterium tuberculosis, are airborne. TB is primarily transmitted through the air when a person with active pulmonary TB coughs, sneezes, or talks, releasing tiny droplets containing the bacteria into the air. Other people can then inhale these droplets, which can lead to infection. It's important to note that TB is not transmitted through casual contact or by surfaces, and the risk of transmission is higher in enclosed and poorly ventilated spaces where infected individuals spend considerable time.