A recent tuberculosis (TB) outbreak in Kansas City, Kansas, and its neighboring counties has left health officials concerned. As of early March 2025, 147 people have been diagnosed with TB, with 67 becoming ill. This is a stark contrast to the declining trend seen in the past decades.
The resurgence of TB can be attributed to various factors, including the COVID-19 pandemic. With healthcare services disrupted and medical supply shortages prevalent, cases of TB increased globally by 4.6% from 2020 to 2023. In the US alone, TB cases rose by over 15% from 2022 to 2023.
TB is a leading infectious cause of death worldwide, with untreated active TB being highly lethal. However, treatment has significantly reduced the mortality rate to 12%. The development of multidrug treatments has made it possible for TB to be cured and stopped in its spread.
The history of TB dates back thousands of years, with evidence found in ancient civilizations. Despite this, the disease still poses a significant threat, particularly in low-income communities. Education on transmission, treatment, and prevention is crucial to eradicating TB.
Healthcare providers must find cases early, before symptoms begin, to reduce the spread of disease and minimize drug toxicity. The ongoing pandemic has highlighted the importance of addressing infectious diseases and ensuring access to healthcare services.
Source: https://www.pbs.org/newshour/health/tuberculosis-was-once-a-disease-in-decline-but-a-resurgence-in-cases-has-health-officials-puzzled