Tuberculosis (TB) is caused by a bacterium called Mycobacterium tuberculosis. The bacteria usually attack the lungs, but TB bacteria can attack any part of the body such as the kidney, spine, and brain. If not treated properly, TB disease can be fatal.
TB is spread through the air from one person to another. The TB bacteria are put into the air when a person with TB disease of the lungs or throat coughs, sneezes, speaks, or sings. People nearby may breathe in these bacteria and become infected.
TB is NOT spread by:
- shaking someone's hand
- sharing food or drink
- touching bed linens or toilet seats
- sharing toothbrushes
- kissing
Clinical Unit
Carlos M. Perez-Velez, M.D. (Adult & Pediatric Infectious Diseases Physician)
Belinda Davis, R.N., B.S.N. (Nurse Case Manager)
Susana Marr, R.N., B.S.N., M.H.A. (Nurse Case Manager)
Tawnie Augustin, R.T. (Radiologic Technologist)
Epidemiology Unit
Anissa Taylor, M.P.H. (Epidemiologist)
Fernando Silvas, B.S., R.S. (Disease Investigator)
Treatment Adherence Unit
Sylvia Molina (Community Health Worker)
Administrative Unit
Susanna K. Feingold, M.P.H. (Program Manager)
Yvette M. Pina (Administrative Assistant)
Education & Training Unit
Claudia L. Roya-Pabon, M.D. (Pediatric Pulmonologist, Volunteer)