TuberculosisTuberculosis is a disease caused by a bacteria called Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Usually, bacteria attack the lungs, but TB bacteria can attack any part of the body, such as the brain, kidneys, and spine. It can spread through the lymph nodes and bloodstream to any organ. It is usually seen in the lungs. If not treated properly, it can be fatal. In the United States, one of the leading causes of death was tuberculosis. Not everyone infected with TB bacteria gets sick. There are two conditions of tuberculosis. It is a latent tuberculosis infection and tuberculosis disease. With latent TB infection, people don't get sick, but TB bacteria can live inside you. People with latent TB infection cannot pass the bacteria to others and are not contagious. If the bacteria is active and multiplies, the person has tuberculosis. If a person has tuberculosis, their immune system cannot stop the bacteria from becoming active. People with tuberculosis get sick and can pass the bacteria to others. SymptomsSymptoms of TB include a bad cough that lasts 3 weeks or more, chest pain, coughing up blood or sputum, weakness or fatigue, weight loss, lack of desire. for food, chills, fever and night sweats. Method of transmission The bacteria responsible for tuberculosis are spread through the air. The bacteria can spread through the air when a person with TB coughs, sneezes, talks or sings. If a person exposed to a TB patient is more likely to get the infection. Complications Tuberculosis must be treated, otherwise it can be fatal. It can affect the lungs and all other parts...... middle of paper ...... traditional data collection. National Tuberculosis Controllers Association (NTCA) Advancing the elimination of tuberculosis is the association's mission in the United States through the coordinated collective action of local, state, and regional government officials. NTCA Objectives• Establish and contribute to a common voice for TB controllers to move forward and promote TB control and elimination activities in the United States.• Agencies, organizations, and committees on concerns and actions affecting tuberculosis control at the local and state levels. and territorial.• Promote positions and legislation to direct tuberculosis control at local, state and territory levels..