Kansas City is witnessing a rapidly growing tuberculosis (TB) outbreak, with 67 active cases reported across Wyandotte and Johnson counties in Kansas. Health officials have classified this outbreak as one of the largest TB outbreaks in U.S. history, raising serious public health concerns.
The outbreak began in 2023 and continues to spread. While TB is a preventable and treatable disease, if left untreated, it can be fatal. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has deployed four staff members to help contain the spread through contact tracing, testing, and health education.
What is Tuberculosis?
Tuberculosis is a highly infectious disease caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It primarily affects the lungs but can also impact other organs like the brain, kidneys, and spine. TB spreads through airborne droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks.
Types of Tuberculosis:
- Active TB: A person experiences symptoms and can spread the disease to others.
- Latent TB: The infection remains in the body without symptoms but can turn active later if untreated.
How Severe is the Kansas City TB Outbreak?
Since January 24, 2025, Kansas health officials have confirmed:
- 67 active TB cases in Kansas City.
- 79 latent TB infections in the affected area.
This outbreak is among the largest recorded in the U.S. since the 2015-2017 Georgia outbreak, which resulted in 170 active cases at a homeless shelter.
Symptoms of Tuberculosis
TB symptoms vary but commonly include:
- Persistent cough lasting more than 3 weeks
- Coughing up blood or mucus
- Severe weight loss
- Fever and night sweats
- Fatigue and weakness
- Chest pain and difficulty breathing
If you or someone you know experiences these symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.
Why is Tuberculosis a Growing Concern?
1. TB Surpasses COVID-19 as Leading Infectious Disease Killer
According to a 2023 World Health Organization (WHO) report, TB replaced COVID-19 as the leading cause of infectious disease-related deaths worldwide. This shift highlights the ongoing global struggle to control TB.
2. TB Cases in the U.S. are Rising
The U.S. recorded:
- 8,649 TB cases in 2024
- 9,606 TB cases in 2023
While TB cases had declined during the COVID-19 pandemic, they are now increasing again, posing a significant health risk.
3. Drug-Resistant TB is a Major Threat
The rise of drug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) is making TB harder to treat. This type of TB does not respond to standard antibiotics, requiring longer and more expensive treatments.
Who is at Risk for Tuberculosis?
Anyone can contract TB, but certain groups are at higher risk:
- People living in crowded areas (e.g., homeless shelters, prisons, or dormitories)
- Healthcare workers exposed to TB patients
- Individuals with weakened immune systems (e.g., HIV/AIDS patients, organ transplant recipients)
- Frequent travelers to TB-endemic countries (e.g., India, China, South Africa)
- Elderly individuals with compromised lung health
How is the CDC Responding to the Outbreak?
To contain the Kansas City outbreak, the CDC has deployed four experts to:
- Conduct contact tracing to identify exposed individuals
- Offer TB screening and testing in affected communities
- Educate local leaders and residents about TB prevention and treatment
The Kansas Department of Health and Environment is also working with healthcare providers to increase TB awareness and early diagnosis.
How to Prevent Tuberculosis
Although TB is highly contagious, it is preventable with the following measures:
1. Get Tested for TB
People at higher risk should get tested regularly using:
- TB skin test (TST)
- TB blood test (IGRA)
2. Complete Your TB Treatment
If diagnosed with active or latent TB, finish the full course of antibiotics to prevent drug-resistant TB.
3. Wear a Mask & Practice Good Hygiene
- TB spreads through the air, so infected individuals should wear masks in public places.
- Cover your mouth when coughing or sneezing.
4. Get the BCG Vaccine (For High-Risk Groups)
The Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) vaccine can protect against severe TB. It is commonly given to children in TB-endemic countries, though it is not widely used in the U.S.
A Call for TB Awareness and Action
The Kansas City tuberculosis outbreak serves as a wake-up call for public health officials and communities. With 67 active cases and growing concerns over drug-resistant TB, urgent action is needed to contain the spread, increase awareness, and improve treatment accessibility.
If you live in an affected area, get tested, stay informed, and take preventive measures to protect yourself and others.
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