Tuberculosis (TB) Transmission: Cigarettes & How TB Spreads

Sharing cigarettes does not transmit tuberculosis. TB spreads via airborne droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, speaks, or sings. It can also spread through direct contact with infectious sputum/mucus, but not via cigarette smoke or saliva on a shared cigarette.

Close, prolonged exposure in poorly ventilated spaces is the main risk. TB is not transmitted by casual contact, surfaces, food, or smoking implements.