A significant TB outbreak in the Kansas City area has been identified as the largest documented in U.S. history with over 67 active cases and nearly 80 latent infections. This marks an increase from previous records tracked by the CDC since 1950. The KC area alone reports 60 active TB cases, while seven others are in Johnson County. Both Wyandotte and Johnson Counties have seen higher numbers of latent TB than ever before.
TB, caused by a bacterium, most commonly affects the lungs and spreads through air from coughing or speaking. The CDC has been monitoring TB cases since 1950, with this being the latest update on ongoing efforts to address the outbreak. Kansas health officials are collaborating with CDC guidance to manage the situation effectively.
KDHE’s website provides more details about the outbreak tracking.
Source: https://www.kshb.com/news/local-news/kansas-health-officials-say-tuberculosis-outbreak-in-kc-area-is-largest-documented-outbreak-in-us-history