Tuberculosis (TB) cases in the United States saw a significant increase last year, climbing to the highest numbers witnessed in over a decade. In 2022, over 10,300 cases were reported, marking an 8% rise compared to the previous year, according to preliminary figures released by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). This surge represents the most substantial infection report since 2011.
Both the absolute number of TB cases and the rate of infections have shown an upward trend. This rise has been noted across all age groups, with 34 states registering increases. CDC officials have attributed much of this growth to factors like international travel and migration. Most TB cases in the United States are diagnosed in individuals born outside the country. Additionally, ailments that compromise the immune system, allowing latent TB infections to become active, are also considered contributors.
Recent trends in TB have been influenced by outbreaks in various states, such as a notable increase in the Kansas City, Kansas area. The TB rate in Kansas shot up by 148% last year, based on the latest CDC statistics. Meanwhile, Alaska and Hawaii continue to report the highest TB rates nationwide.
TB is a bacterial infection primarily impacting the lungs and is transmitted through the air via coughing or sneezing of infected individuals. Without proper treatment, TB can be deadly. In the late 19th century, TB was a major killer, claiming one out of every seven lives in the U.S. and Europe. However, the advent of antibiotics and rigorous public health initiatives successfully reduced infection rates by treating cases and tracking transmissions, leading to a decline in instances over several decades.
It’s important to note that the new CDC data do not indicate the count of new infections but rather the number of people exhibiting symptoms, like coughing, who were subsequently diagnosed with TB.