Kansas is currently experiencing its largest documented tuberculosis (TB) outbreak, with 67 active cases reported as of January 24, 2025.
The majority of these cases are concentrated in Wyandotte County, which includes Kansas City, with 60 cases, while neighboring Johnson County has reported 7 cases.
Health officials emphasize that the risk to the general public remains very low, but the rapid increase in cases has prompted significant concern.
Understanding Tuberculosis
Tuberculosis is an infectious disease caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis, primarily affecting the lungs but capable of impacting other parts of the body. It spreads through the air when an infected person coughs, speaks, or sings. There are two forms of TB:
- Active TB Disease: This form makes individuals feel sick and can be transmitted to others. Symptoms include a persistent cough, chest pain, and coughing up blood.
- Latent TB Infection: In this form, the bacteria remain inactive in the body, causing no symptoms and not being contagious. However, latent TB can become active if not treated.
Current Outbreak Details
The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) has been actively monitoring the outbreak. Since 2024, there have been 67 active TB cases and 79 latent TB infections identified in the Kansas City area.
The majority of cases have been reported in Wyandotte County, with a smaller number in Johnson County. This outbreak is considered the largest in Kansas history and potentially the largest in recent U.S. history due to the rapid increase in cases.
Response and Treatment Efforts
Health officials are collaborating with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to manage the outbreak. Efforts include:
- Identifying and Testing Close Contacts: Local health departments are working to identify individuals who have been in close contact with active TB patients and conducting free TB testing.
- Providing Treatment: Patients diagnosed with either active TB disease or latent TB infection are receiving appropriate treatment through their local health departments. Treatment is provided at no cost to uninsured individuals or those whose insurance does not cover it.
- Monitoring and Support: Health department staff maintain regular contact with patients throughout their treatment to ensure adherence and address any concerns.
County | Active TB Cases | Latent TB Infections | Total Cases | Population Impacted |
---|---|---|---|---|
Wyandotte County | 60 | 77 | 137 | Kansas City Area |
Johnson County | 7 | 2 | 9 | Suburban Areas |
Total | 67 | 79 | 146 |
While the current TB outbreak in Kansas is unprecedented in its scale, health officials assure the public that the risk of infection remains very low.
Ongoing efforts to identify, test, and treat affected individuals are crucial in controlling the spread of the disease. Public awareness and cooperation with health guidelines are essential in managing this outbreak effectively.
FAQs
What is tuberculosis (TB)?
Tuberculosis is an infectious disease caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It primarily affects the lungs but can impact other parts of the body. TB spreads through the air when an infected person coughs, speaks, or sings.
What are the symptoms of active TB disease?
Symptoms of active TB include a persistent cough lasting more than three weeks, chest pain, coughing up blood, fatigue, weight loss, fever, and night sweats.
How is TB treated?
TB is treatable with a course of specific antibiotics taken over a period of six to nine months. It’s crucial to complete the entire treatment regimen to effectively cure the disease and prevent the development of drug-resistant TB strains.
Is there a risk to the general public in Kansas?
Health officials have stated that there is a very low risk to the general public, including surrounding counties. Efforts are focused on identifying and treating affected individuals to prevent further spread.