HIV combined with TB is accelerating the spread of TB

TB and HIV form a lethal combination, each speeding the other's progress. HIV weakens the immune system. Someone who is HIV-positive and infected with TB is many times more likely to become sick with TB than someone infected with TB who is HIV-negative.

The millions of new HIV infections a year especially in the African continent is fueling the spread of TB. TB is a leading cause of death among people who are HIV-positive. It accounts for about 11% of AIDS deaths worldwide. In Africa , HIV is the single most important factor determining the increased incidence of TB in the past 10-15 years

"TB/HIV is a deadly combination and needs to be tackled with an approach treating the whole person," said Dr. LEE Jong-wook, Director-General of the World Health Organization. "With effective treatment, TB can be cured, HIV managed, and the health of millions of people preserved."