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Atlanta, GA – Tuberculosis (TB) cases in the United States have reached their highest levels in more than a dozen years, according to preliminary data released by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Over 10,300 cases were reported in the past year, marking an 8% increase from the previous year and the highest number since 2011.
The CDC data reveals a concerning trend, with both the absolute number of cases and the infection rates on the rise. Increases were observed across all age groups, and 34 states reported a surge in TB cases.
CDC officials attribute the rise primarily to international travel and migration. A significant majority of U.S. TB cases are diagnosed in individuals born outside the country. Additionally, other health conditions that weaken the immune system and allow latent TB infections to become active may also be contributing factors.
Outbreaks in several states have significantly impacted the national trend. Notably, the Kansas City, Kansas, area experienced a recent outbreak, leading to a 148% jump in Kansas’s TB rate last year, according to the CDC data. Alaska and Hawaii continue to report the highest case rates in the country.
Tuberculosis is a bacterial infection that typically affects the lungs and is spread through airborne droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Untreated TB can be fatal. In the late 19th century, TB was a leading cause of death, claiming one in seven lives in the U.S. and Europe. However, advancements in antibiotics and public health initiatives led to a significant decline in cases for decades.
It is important to note that the CDC statistics reflect the number of diagnosed cases with symptoms, rather than the total number of new infections. This means the data represents individuals who developed symptoms such as a cough and were subsequently diagnosed with active TB.
Public health officials are urging increased vigilance and improved surveillance to curb the resurgence of this potentially deadly disease.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is based on preliminary data released by the CDC. Tuberculosis is a serious infectious disease, and any health concerns should be addressed with a qualified healthcare professional. This article does not provide medical advice and is intended for informational purposes only. The information regarding the cause of the increases are based on CDC’s preliminary findings and are subject to change as more data is collected and analyzed.
