About World Tuberculosis Day
World Tuberculosis Day, on 24 March, marks the date in 1882 when Dr Robert Koch announced that he had discovered the bacterium that causes TB. It raises awareness of tuberculosis and supports efforts to end the disease.
World Tuberculosis Day recalls 24 March 1882, when Dr Robert Koch announced his discovery of the bacterium that causes tuberculosis. His work opened the way to diagnosing and treating the disease. Today TB is preventable and curable, yet it remains one of the world's most serious infectious diseases.
TB usually affects the lungs and spreads through the air when a person with active TB coughs or sneezes. The day focuses on early testing, completing the full course of treatment and ending the stigma that stops people seeking care.
How it is marked
Hospitals and health departments hold screening camps and awareness walks. Schools and colleges run talks on symptoms such as a long-lasting cough. Workplaces share information on testing and on supporting colleagues through treatment. India carries a large share of the world's TB burden, so the day is widely marked by public health programmes, doctors and community volunteers, with a strong focus on free testing, treatment and nutrition support.
What to write
Be supportive and hopeful, and avoid any words that blame or single someone out.
- Every dose brings you closer to full health. I am proud of you and here for you all the way.
- Thank you, Doctor, for checking on Dadi every week of her treatment. She finished the full course.
- Halfway through the course now. Keep going, and tell me when you want the good dal delivered.
How to wish someone on World Tuberculosis Day
support for people on TB treatment, thanks to health workers, and hope for a TB-free future
Write a few lines in your own words, pick a design and share it as one link on WhatsApp, Instagram or anywhere else. They open an animated card made just for them, with no app and no sign-up.
Language tip: English, Hindi + recipient language.
Frequently asked questions
Why is World TB Day on 24 March?
On 24 March 1882, Dr Robert Koch announced that he had identified the bacterium that causes tuberculosis. The day marks that discovery, which made diagnosis and treatment possible.
Is tuberculosis curable?
Yes. TB can be cured with a full course of the right medicines, usually taken for several months. Completing the entire course is important, even when a person starts to feel better.
How can offices and schools mark World TB Day?
They can invite a doctor to speak, share information on symptoms and free testing, and remind people that TB is curable. Encouraging kindness towards anyone on treatment helps reduce stigma.
When is World Tuberculosis Day in 2026?
World Tuberculosis Day 2026 falls on Tuesday, 24 March 2026.
What is World Tuberculosis Day?
World Tuberculosis Day, on 24 March, marks the date in 1882 when Dr Robert Koch announced that he had discovered the bacterium that causes TB. It raises awareness of tuberculosis and supports efforts to end the disease.
Is World Tuberculosis Day a public holiday?
Holiday status for World Tuberculosis Day varies by state, employer and community in India, so check your local holiday list.
How do I wish someone on World Tuberculosis Day?
Focus on support for people on tb treatment, thanks to health workers, and hope for a tb-free future. On Kehdoo you can write a short message, pick a design and share a free animated World Tuberculosis Day card as a single link, with no app or sign-up needed.
Sources
Last verified by the Kehdoo team on .