What is the incubation period of tuberculosis?

The incubation period for tuberculosis (TB) is variable and can range from two to 12 weeks in a person with normal immunity. However, this period can be shorter or longer in certain individuals. In some cases, it may take years for symptoms to appear after the initial infection with the TB bacteria (Mycobacterium tuberculosis).

It's important to note that not everyone who is infected with TB will develop active disease. Some people may have latent TB, in which they carry the bacteria but do not show symptoms and are not contagious.