TB Outbreak 2025– As of early 2025, Kansas is experiencing a significant tuberculosis (TB) outbreak, with 67 active cases and 79 latent infections reported since 2024. State officials initially claimed this to be the largest TB outbreak in U.S. history, but the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has disputed this assertion. The CDC referenced past outbreaks with higher case numbers, such as one in Atlanta in 2008 that involved over 170 active cases and another in 2021 linked to contaminated bone grafts affecting 87 people.
Most of the current cases in Kansas are concentrated in Wyandotte County, though health officials have stated that the general public is at very low risk of infection. TB is spread through airborne transmission and can be treated with antibiotics, but health authorities continue to monitor the situation closely.
TB Outbreak 2025
The tuberculosis (TB) outbreak in Kansas, particularly in Wyandotte County and parts of Johnson County, has been described as the largest in the state’s history. Health officials have documented 66 active cases and 79 latent infections since 2024, making it one of the most significant outbreaks recorded in the U.S. since the CDC began tracking TB cases in the 1950s.
The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) has called the outbreak “unprecedented,” noting that while active cases declined in 2024, it remains a serious public health concern. Local health authorities are actively monitoring and working to contain the spread of the disease.
If you are in the affected areas, it’s recommended to watch for TB symptoms, such as persistent cough, fever, night sweats, and weight loss, and seek medical evaluation if needed. For further updates, you can follow local health departments and the CDC’s guidance on TB prevention and treatment.
FAQ on the 2025 Tuberculosis (TB) Outbreak in Kansas, USA
1. What is happening with the TB outbreak in Kansas?
Kansas is experiencing its largest-ever tuberculosis (TB) outbreak, with 66 active cases and 79 latent infections primarily in Wyandotte County and Johnson County. Health officials have been monitoring and managing the outbreak since 2024【15】.
2. How does TB spread?
TB spreads through airborne transmission when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or speaks. Unlike the flu or COVID-19, TB does not spread through touching surfaces, shaking hands, or sharing food【14】.
3. What are the symptoms of TB?
- Persistent cough (lasting over 3 weeks)
- Coughing up blood
- Chest pain
- Fatigue
- Unintentional weight loss
- Fever & night sweats
- Loss of appetite【13】.
4. What is the difference between latent and active TB?
- Latent TB: The person is infected but has no symptoms and is not contagious. However, it can become active later.
- Active TB: The infection is symptomatic and contagious, requiring immediate treatment【15】.
5. Who is at risk?
- People in close contact with TB patients
- Individuals with weakened immune systems (HIV, diabetes, cancer patients, etc.)
- People in crowded environments (nursing homes, prisons, shelters)【14】.
6. How is TB treated?
TB is treated with a 6-month antibiotic regimen, which usually includes isoniazid, rifampin, ethambutol, and pyrazinamide. It is crucial to complete the full course to prevent drug-resistant TB【13】.
7. Is TB curable?
Yes, TB is curable with proper antibiotic treatment. However, drug-resistant TB can develop if treatment is stopped early or taken incorrectly【15】.
8. How can I protect myself?
- Get tested if you have been in close contact with someone diagnosed with TB.
- Ensure good ventilation in enclosed spaces.
- Wear a mask if you are at risk or around an infected person.
- Follow public health guidelines and complete TB treatment if prescribed【14】.
9. What is the government doing about this outbreak?
The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) is actively tracking cases, testing at-risk populations, and providing treatment. Health officials are working to contain the outbreak and prevent further spread【13】.
10. Where can I get more information?
- Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE): kdheks.gov
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): cdc.gov/tb
- Local Public Health Departments in Wyandotte and Johnson Counties.
Would you like information on TB testing locations or vaccine updates?
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