What is World Tuberculosis Day?

World Tuberculosis Day is held annually on 24 of March to raise awareness and educate the public about the global impact of tuberculosis (TB). TB causes devastating health, social and economic consequences around the world, especially in countries like Papua New Guinea .  

Haven’t heard of World Tuberculosis Day? Here’s our guide to what World TB Day is all about, and how you can educate yourself and help raise awareness about this life-threatening infectious disease.

Why do we celebrate World Tuberculosis Day?

March 24 is the anniversary of the day scientist Dr Robert Koch, discovered the cause of TB, the TB bacillus in 1882. This discovery was groundbreaking and led to the diagnosis and successful treatment of the disease. 

A century later, the United Nations declared that this date would be commemorated as World Tuberculosis Day, to raise awareness and educate the public about the impact of tuberculosis.

What is tuberculosis (TB)?

TB is an infectious disease that attacks the lungs, however, it can also affect other parts of the body, such as the brain, kidneys or spine. It is highly contagious and spreads from person to person through the air via coughs, sneezes, and when the bacteria is released into the air during conversation.

According to the World Health Organisation , a total of 1.25 million people died from TB in 2023 and is considered the world’s leading cause of death from a single infectious agent, following three years in which it was replaced by coronavirus disease (COVID-19). It was also the leading killer of people with HIV and a major cause of deaths related to antimicrobial resistance. Over 80% of cases and deaths occur in developing countries. 

Although a preventable and curable disease, TB is a major cause of illness and death for children in developing countries, where providing treatment is challenging, particularly in remote communities. 

What is the theme for World Tuberculosis Day 2025?

The theme for 2025’s World TB Day is 'Yes! We Can End TB: Commit, Invest, Deliver' . This year’s theme amplifies the urgency of ending tuberculosis and the role we can all play is ending this disease, particularly as we move closer to g lobal efforts to end TB by 2030 . It is a bold call for hope, urgency and accountability. 

How you can make an impact on World Tuberculosis Day 2025

If you would like to get involved and make a difference this World TB Day, here are some ideas to get you started: 

1. Spread awareness and start a conversation on social media

To spread awareness about World Tuberculosis Day, one of the best ways is to share relevant information on your Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn accounts. 

We suggest sharing statistics on TB, tuberculosis stories , educational resources or other communication materials that can help to raise awareness of this global disease. You can use the hashtags #WorldTBDay and #ItsTimeToEndTB to spark a conversation. 

2. Educate yourself about tuberculosis

World Tuberculosis Day is the perfect time to learn more about the impact of TB around the world. Visit the official World Tuberculosis Day 2025 page to learn more about the event. There are also a number of resources, stories and videos you can watch on the internet to learn more about TB and its impact.

3. Donate to provide access to treatment

If you want to make a difference and save a child in need, donate to programs that support children living in rural areas of developing countries. You can help them access adequate healthcare and prevent further TB transmissions.

Through ChildFund Australia you can donate a Handwashing Station to a community in need, helping to reduce the spread of infectious diseases.

Support World Tuberculosis Day

Support World Tuberculosis Day this year and make a difference in the lives of children impacted by the disease. 

We believe all children should have the right to adequate healthcare. By spreading awareness, educating yourself or making a donation , you will be helping to combat this disease by improving access to healthcare to reduce the impact TB has on children in developing countries.