World Tuberculosis Day 2025: Date, Theme, Meaning, History, Significance

Tuberculosis is an infectious disease that can be cured easily with medication. However, lack of awareness about the disease may make it difficult to detect and keep it in a dormant state for long. WHO started World Tuberculosis Day to spread awareness among people. The observance of World Tuberculosis Day on 24 March commemorates Dr. Robert Koch discovery of TB bacillus bacteria, which is responsible for the spread of tuberculosis.

History of World Tuberculosis Day

The history of tuberculosis goes back to 24 March, 1882, when Dr. Robert Koch discovered the bacterium of TB bacillus.  In 1921 the first patient of TB was vaccinated with a BCG vaccine, which took over 13 years to develop. On March 24, 1982 after a century of the discovery of TB bacillus, WHO held the first World TB Day to commemorate the 100 years of Dr. Koch’s discovery.

Ways to Observe World Tuberculosis Day

To prevent the spread of tuberculosis and to stay protected from this disease, it is important to get tested for TB on a regular basis. The test for tuberculosis is a simple one and can be easily done to ensure protection from this illness.

Spreading awareness against the disease is important and it can be done by using social media and other means of communication. There are many people who are not aware of the existence of TB until very late. In fact, it is quite possible that latent tuberculosis stays dormant in your lungs without any indication or symptoms for years. Hence, it is necessary to spread awareness about the disease to avoid its spread and to stay protected from it. As such, be it any disease, it is always better to stay protected by using preventive means.

Another thing that you may do to observe World Tuberculosis Day is to donate or volunteer for a cause or an event being organized near you. Many activities and events are held across the globe to observe World Tuberculosis Day. You can be a part of any such event. Further, several organizations are working dedicatedly towards eradication of TB, where you can join as a volunteer or you may donate for such causes.

Why Is World Tuberculosis Day Observed?

Tuberculosis exists in many parts of the globe even today. There are many people who still suffer from this disease. Though it is a general notion that TB is an outdated disease that doesn’t exist anymore. However, reports state that over one-third (around 2 billion people) of the global population still suffer from tuberculosis. Hence, it is important to reach out to the millions of people across the globe and educate them about TB and limit its spread.

There is another popular notion about TB which states that it is a major condition of third world countries only. However, many cases of TB seen in developed nations in recent times has made it evident that TB is present worldwide and needs proper attention.

World Tuberculosis Day – Theme 2025

“Yes! We Can End TB” is the World Tuberculosis Day theme 2023. The theme is chosen to bring attention to the disease so that TB can be eradicated from the world soon.