Thank you for publishing such an informative and reality-based tuberculosis (TB) article by Patricia Yepassis-Zenbrou and Alicia McQuen, both of the Snohomish Health District. (Saturday, “After more than a century, tuberculosis still a threat.”) With a third of the world population already infected with the TB bacteria, it is critical that we all are aware of basic TB facts; how TB impacts individuals and their family in regards to their relationships and work; and the stigma associated with TB in all cultures around the world. It is time that medical providers and the community at large begin to “think TB.” As a community, we must show compassion and support to those affected by TB.

TB Photovoice.org is a local nonprofit that helps support people impacted by TB by documenting their stories and connecting them with others in similar situations. Although TB is a medically challenging disease, we can all make the TB experience better for others by education and stopping the TB stigma. Thank you to the Snohomish Health District for its dedication and commitment to the people throughout Snohomish County battling TB. Their institutional knowledge and kind hearts is absolutely crucial to the global movement to end TB.

Teresa Rugg

Director, TB Photovoice

Snohomish