All articles tagged with #latent tb
US TB cases rose in 2024 to over 10,600—the third straight annual increase and the highest since 2013—driven by latent infections reactivating after pandemic disruptions and renewed international travel, signaling strain on public health programs and a need for continued testing and complete antibiotic treatment to prevent drug resistance.
Tuberculosis, known as the white plague, is rising in the United States after COVID-19 disrupted screening and treatment, with 2024 TB cases topping 10,600—the highest since 2013. Health officials say many infections are latent and undiagnosed, reactivating as screenings resume and international travel/migration rebounds. About 25% of people are infected with TB, but 5%–10% progress to active disease. TB is curable with antibiotics, but incomplete treatment risks drug resistance; higher-risk groups include people born in or traveling to TB-burden countries, those living in crowded conditions, and immunocompromised individuals. Emphasis is on testing and treating latent TB to prevent progression to active disease.
An outbreak at Amazon's Coventry warehouse led to 10 workers testing positive for latent tuberculosis among about 3,000 staff. Latent TB is not contagious, and those affected are receiving treatment as NHS and UKHSA expand testing. The site remains open, but unions and local MPs are calling for stronger infection controls and worker protections, highlighting ongoing debates about warehouse safety; TB cases are rising in England, with authorities advising screening for those exposed.
San Luis Obispo County has seen an increase in tuberculosis cases, with 10 reported in 2023 and many carrying over into 2024. Health officials are particularly concerned about latent tuberculosis, which can stay dormant in individuals for years or decades before showing symptoms. The majority of cases are in northern San Luis Obispo County, and officials advise testing for those who may have been exposed, especially if they have been out of the country. Symptoms of active tuberculosis include severe coughing, night sweats, fever, and weight loss.