World TB Day: 10 facts about TB

1. Mantoux test is done to identify patients who are infected with the tuberculous infection; they may or may not have the disease. This test is also used as a public-health measure to detect infection in patient's family and friends.

2. Kinyoun stain shows presence of mycobacteria in sputum sample.

Fact 1

Tuberculosis (TB) is contagious and spreads through the air. If not treated, each person with active TB can infect on average 10 to 15 people a year.