Tuberculosis is a rare disease in Germany and infection does not occur as quickly as with other respiratory infections. Infection in public, e.g. on the subway, is therefore very unlikely. There is also no risk of infection from contact outdoors.

There is usually only a risk of infection with close and frequent contact, e.g. with family members. However, infection can also occur through other regular contact, e.g. in the immediate working environment. As tuberculosis is a notifiable disease in Germany, the public health department is always consulted. As part of the so-called environmental examination, the responsible health authority will contact you and invite you to an interview and examination.