By Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services
LINCOLN, Neb. – Tuberculosis (TB) is a serious contagious disease caused by bacteria that typically affects the lungs but can also impact other parts of the body. TB spreads through the air when a person with active TB disease coughs, speaks, or sings.
There are two forms of TB.
-Inactive TB is when individuals are infected with the bacteria but do not feel sick and cannot spread TB to others. However, without treatment, inactive TB can develop into active TB.
-Active TB is when individuals experience symptoms and can spread TB to others.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there were 41 cases of TB in Nebraska in 2024 and 37 cases in 2025 (provisional data). The Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services highlights the importance of prevention, including seeking testing and treatment as appropriate. TB is preventable and treatable.
“Tuberculosis is not a disease of the past,” said Dr. Timothy Tesmer, DHHS Chief Medical Officer. “Appropriate preventive testing, early detection and timely treatment improves outcomes and protects Nebraska families and communities.”
Certain populations may have a higher risk of TB exposure or progression to active disease, including:
-Individuals who have been in close contact with someone with active TB or have traveled to or lived in areas where TB is common.
-Individuals with weakened immune systems (diabetes, cancer, HIV and certain medications).
-Residents and employees of congregate settings such as shelters, correctional facilities, or long-term care facilities.
“Prevention is key,” said Dr. Tesmer. “I encourage Nebraskans who are at higher risk or have been exposed to reach out to their healthcare provider or local health department to get tested. TB testing is simple and may involve a skin test or a blood test. If necessary, additional tests such as chest X-rays may be conducted.”
TB is treatable with antibiotics prescribed by a healthcare provider. It is critical that patients complete the full course of medication, even if symptoms improve.
To learn more, visit https://www.cdc.gov/tb/index.html.