Siouxland District Health Dept, IA

🌍 World TB Day March 24 2026

Global Theme: “Yes! We Can End TB. Led by countries. Powered by people.”

TB is a preventable disease, treatable and curable. Each year world TB day highlights the ongoing efforts to eliminate TB and to support the individuals and communities affected by TB. Early testing and treatment can save lives. Public Health works every day to prevent the spread of TB in our communities. 

Why It Matters: 

In 2024, 10.7 million people worldwide fell ill with TB; 1.23 million died from it.

Worldwide TB is the leading infectious disease killer, surpassing COVID-19, and remains the top cause of death among people with HIV.

Approximately one-quarter of the global population harbors TB bacteria; about 5–10% of infected individuals will develop active TB.

Drug-resistant TB is a major public health issue: only about 40% of those with drug-resistant TB received treatment in 2024.

Understanding TB:

TB is caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis, it most commonly affects the lungs, but it can also go outside of the lungs this is called extrapulmonary TB. 

Transmission: Spreads through little droplets in the air when someone with active pulmonary TB coughs, sneezes, or talks. 

Infection vs Disease:

Inactive TB infection: No symptoms, not contagious; may stay dormant for years.

Active TB disease symptoms:

Persistent cough (sometimes with blood) > greater than 3 weeks

Chest pain

Loss of appetite

Fatigue and weight loss

Fever and night sweats and chills

Local support: SDHD provides TB screenings, education and case management for our community.

Learn More