HIV weakens the immune system which means that the body is not strong enough to fight infections and to stay healthy. That is why a person who is HIV positive is more likely to get sick with TB. It is very important to be screened for TB if you are found to be HIV positive. You may be given treatment to protect you from contracting TB (isoniazid or INH preventive therapy). However, it is possible to have TB without being HIV positive, and it is possible to be HIV positive without getting sick with TB. If you are found to have TB, you can be given medication to treat and cure TB, even if you are HIV positive. Remember: TB is curable!