Lung TB can spread through the air, but it is not spread by touch, food or sharing plates. Most people become non-infectious quickly once they are on proper treatment. Here is how to protect your family without isolating the person you love.
हिंदी में सार
फेफड़ों की टीबी हवा से फैल सकती है, लेकिन हाथ मिलाने, साथ खाने, बर्तन या बिस्तर छूने से नहीं फैलती। सही इलाज शुरू होने के लगभग दो हफ़्ते बाद ज़्यादातर मरीज़ों से संक्रमण का ख़तरा बहुत कम हो जाता है। खिड़कियाँ खुली रखें, खाँसते समय मुँह ढकें और घर के सदस्यों की जाँच करवाएँ।
How TB spreads
The CDC says TB germs get into the air when a person with active TB of the lungs or throat coughs, speaks or sings. The germs can stay in the air for hours and spread more easily indoors with poor airflow. People with latent TB infection cannot spread TB.
How TB does not spread
- Shaking hands
- Sharing food or drink
- Touching bed linen or toilet seats
- Sharing a toothbrush
- Kissing
Only TB of the lungs or throat spreads. TB of a gland, bone or other organ alone usually does not.
How long is a TB patient contagious?
A UK public health leaflet says most people with infectious TB become non-infectious quickly, generally after about two weeks of proper treatment, if they keep taking it. Your doctor decides, based on your tests. Stopping treatment can make you infectious again.
Protecting your family at home
Let fresh air in
Keep windows open, and spend time outdoors when you can.
Cover coughs and sneezes
Everyone at home should cover the nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing.
Sleep separately if possible
In the first weeks of treatment, sleep in a separate airy room with the door closed if you can.
Wear a mask near others
Wear a mask in shared indoor spaces and when caring for young children, until your doctor says you are no longer infectious.
Get everyone checked
Household contacts should be screened for TB and may get preventive treatment, especially children under 5.
Should I get tested?Answer a few yes or no questions based on the official TB warning signs. Nothing is saved.
Start the checklistFrequently asked questions
Is TB contagious after 2 weeks of treatment?
Most people are generally non-infectious after about two weeks of proper treatment, but your doctor decides based on your tests.
Is TB contagious after 2 months of treatment?
Usually not, if treatment is taken properly. Keep taking every dose.
Can I hug my children?
Yes. TB does not spread by touch. Until your doctor says you are non-infectious, wear a mask when caring for young children and keep rooms airy.
Should we use separate plates?
No. TB does not spread through plates, glasses or food.
Medical review note. Written from official TB programme guidelines; last checked 16 October 2026. This is general information, not medical advice. For diagnosis and treatment, see a doctor at your nearest government health facility.