Mycobacterium tuberculosis causes the highly contagious disease tuberculosis. Spread through tiny droplets, the infection can be latent or active, and the former can last for several years. Some of the most common symptoms include prolonged coughing, chest pain, unintentional weight loss, night sweats, chills, loss of appetite, fatigue, and fever. Anyone who contracts tuberculosis will require treatment which involves taking antibiotics for at least six months.

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