Tuberculosis (TB) is an ancient disease but humanity still suffers from it. Prevention of infection and progression to TB disease is crucial in controlling the global TB epidemic. Though BCG is still the only licensed TB vaccine available, promising work is in progress in the development of novel effective and safe TB vaccine. Newer diagnostics like IGRA and TBST could facilitate the identification of high-risk people infected by TB who will benefit from preventive TB treatment (PTT). Shorter rifamycin containing regime for PTT could enhance patient adherence and ensure completion of the planned treatment. Molecular based technique has revolutionized the diagnosis of drug resistant, especially MDR-TB which conventionally required phenotypic, culture-based method with delay in commencement of appropriate anti-TB treatment. Newer and shorter regimens of anti-TB treatment for both drug sensitive and drug resistant TB have been shown to be effective and safe and incorporated into the latest guidelines. Multiple studies on new and repurposed anti-TB drugs are in the pipeline. Video or electronic supported directly observed therapy is advocated to enhance patient adherence to anti-TB treatment. Host directed therapy opens a new window for the effective treatment of TB. Application of artificial intelligence in management of TB patients from screening, diagnosis, prognostication and regimen determination brings hope to accomplish the goal of TB elimination.
