Kansas Reports a Significant Outbreak of Tuberculosis

I have been following the rise in cases of the respiratory disease tuberculosis (i.e., “TB”) for some time.  Last year, an incident involving an illegal Chinese immigrant with a rare form of tuberculosis sparked concern and legal action in Louisiana.

Then, approximately 200 students and staff members at a Georgia high school underwent tuberculosis testing after a possible exposure on campus.

Now, Kansas is currently experiencing a significant TB outbreak, primarily centered in the Kansas City area. The outbreak began early last year. At this point, there are 67 active TB cases, with 60 in 2 urban areas in the eastern part of the state. Additionally, at least 79 cases of latent TB infections have been reported.

The infections have resulted in 2 deaths already.