How to prevent TB from family members?
Dr Anuj Sharma
World Health Organization,
Country Office for India,
New Delhi
World Health Organization,
Country Office for India,
New Delhi
Q: What precaution should I take to prevent TB as my brother is having it and we stay together? Do I need any antibiotic to avoid it?
A:Your brother has to be an open case of pulmonary TB for any significant risk to family members. As a household contact of a TB patient, you should get your Mantoux test done to check for exposure to the mycobacteria. If positive, then chemoprophylaxis may be considered.