Kansas Reports Largest Tuberculosis Outbreak in U.S. History

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Kansas is currently experiencing a major outbreak of tuberculosis (TB), which health officials have declared the largest on record in the United States. As of January 24, 2025, the Kansas state department of health and environment reported 67 active TB cases since the beginning of 2024, alongside 79 latent infections. The majority of these cases have been identified in Wyandotte and Johnson counties, part of the greater Kansas City area.

Jill Bronaugh, communications director for the health department, emphasized that the outbreak’s rapid escalation within a short timeframe qualifies it as historically significant. She stated, “This outbreak is still ongoing, which means that there could be more cases.” While the risk to the broader public is considered low, state officials are collaborating with local health agencies and following CDC guidelines to manage the situation and provide treatment.

TB is typically caused by a bacterium that predominantly affects the lungs and spreads through the air. The disease presents in two forms: active TB, which causes symptoms and can be transmitted, and latent TB, which is symptomless and non-contagious but can progress to active TB if left untreated.

In 2023, the U.S. recorded its highest number of active TB cases since 2013, with an increase noted from the previous year. The CDC estimates that around 13 million Americans may live with latent TB. Health officials recommend testing for those at increased risk, including individuals in congregate living settings or those with compromised immune systems.

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