A tuberculosis outbreak in the Kansas City, Kansas area has risen to nearly 70 active cases as of January 24, alarming health officials. The Unified Government of Wyandotte County reported 60 active cases in Wyandotte County alone.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), this is not the largest outbreak of tuberculosis in U.S. history. However, local authorities are taking proactive steps to address the situation. Lee Norman, former Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) health secretary, emphasized that while the risk is low, public vigilance is essential.
“We need to get out there and figure out where the cases are coming from and who has been exposed,” Norman said. “Good funding for public health is crucial in managing this outbreak.”
Norman stressed the importance of taking basic precautions to prevent the spread of tuberculosis, such as avoiding people who are sick and coughing, and washing one’s hands.
KDHE is working closely with schools and businesses to manage close contacts with those infected. The department intends to take comprehensive steps to address the situation while monitoring symptoms.
While some online creators have raised concerns about the outbreak, local health officials assure that the public is not at risk and emphasize that tuberculosis can be cured and prevented if caught early.
Source: https://kansasreflector.com/2025/01/31/tuberculosis-toll-in-kansas-city-kansas-area-rises-to-nearly-70-active-cases