Tuberculosis (TB)
Tanzania has one of the highest TB burdens in Africa. TB is curable with a full course of free medication available at government facilities.
Always confirm diagnosis and treatment with a qualified health professional.
Compiled from public health references including the CDC, Mayo Clinic, WebMD, the World Health Organization, and the Tanzania Ministry of Health.
Overview
Tuberculosis is a bacterial infection caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis, primarily affecting the lungs. It spreads through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Tanzania notifies approximately 70,000 TB cases per year. TB-HIV co-infection is common — about 30% of TB patients in Tanzania are also HIV-positive.
Common Symptoms
- Persistent cough lasting more than 2 weeks
- Coughing up blood or bloody sputum
- Chest pain
- Night sweats
- Unexplained weight loss
- Fever
- Fatigue and weakness
Treatment
TB is cured with a 6-month course of antibiotics (HRZE/HR regimen). Treatment is free at all government facilities under the National Tuberculosis and Leprosy Programme (NTLP).
- First 2 months: Daily rifampicin, isoniazid, pyrazinamide, ethambutol
- Last 4 months: Daily rifampicin and isoniazid
- Do NOT stop taking medication early — this causes drug resistance
- Drug-resistant TB (MDR-TB) requires longer, more complex treatment
Prevention
- BCG vaccine for newborns (protects against severe TB in children)
- Good ventilation in homes and workplaces
- Cover your mouth when coughing or sneezing
- If you live with a TB patient, get tested — free contact tracing available
- HIV-positive people should be screened for TB at every clinic visit
Cost & NHIF Coverage
Public facilities: Diagnosis and the full treatment course are free nationwide under the National TB and Leprosy Programme (NTLP) — this includes drug-resistant TB.
NHIF: Covers associated consultations and monitoring at accredited facilities.
Private facilities: Diagnostic tests (sputum, GeneXpert, chest X-ray) range TZS 20,000–80,000; treatment itself should still be sourced free through the public TB programme even if diagnosed privately.
Estimated ranges — actual cost varies by facility. Confirm with reception and check your insurer's coverage before treatment.
Where to Get Care
Confirm with reception that the facility treats this condition and that your insurer is accepted before visiting.