Treating Latent TB infection

"Learn about how CDC is expanding efforts to eliminate tuberculosis (TB) through new updated treatment recommendations for latent TB infection.

Treating Latent Tuberculosis (TB) Infection Prevents TB Disease

Treatment of latent TB infection is essential to controlling and eliminating TB in the United States because it substantially reduces the risk that latent TB infection will progress to TB disease. Up to 13 million people in the United States have latent TB infection. Without treatment, they are at risk for developing TB disease in the future. Treatment greatly reduces this risk.

Several treatment regimens are available for the treatment of latent TB infection. These regimens are equally effective; however, clinicians should prescribe the more convenient shorter regimens, when possible. Patients are more likely to complete shorter treatment regimens..."
TB Infection