People with infectious tuberculosis must not have direct contact with other people without protective measures to prevent the disease from spreading further. For this reason, patients are isolated from other people as long as there is a risk of infection for others.
In hospital, patients with infectious tuberculosis may only leave their room after consultation, e.g. for examinations, and must then wear suitable mouth and nose protection. This instruction must be followed so as not to endanger other people. Medical staff must wear a special mask when entering the room. Isolation is necessary as long as there is a risk of infection. This is usually the case if bacteria can still be detected in the sputum.
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Under certain conditions, isolation at home is also possible. However, the medication should be well tolerated and taken regularly by the patient. In addition, no particularly vulnerable people, such as young children or people with a compromised immune system, should live in the household. A person with infectious tuberculosis must not spend time in public places such as restaurants, public transport, stores, cinemas or at parties. When in contact with others, a face mask must also be worn at home.

The public health department, together with the treating doctors, will decide whether isolation in hospital or at home is possible and will discuss the details with the person concerned.