Subject: Tuberculosis

I recently learned about the tuberculosis bacillus and remain confused about its pathology.

I still do not understand how it can remain dormant in an individual for an extended period, 

and then become active. I've learned of many viral examples that share this trait, e.g. HIV,

but this is the first bacteria I have encountered. How does the process work?

How serious does the rise of multi-drug resistant tuberculosis threaten the public?

Re: Tuberculosis