A major tuberculosis (TB) outbreak has been reported in the Kansas City area, making it one of the largest TB outbreaks ever recorded in the U.S. Health officials have confirmed 67 active TB cases in Wyandotte and Johnson counties, Kansas, with an additional 79 latent infections identified since 2024. The outbreak, which began last year, continues to spread, raising concerns among health authorities.

Key Highlights:

• 67 Active Cases Identified:

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) has confirmed the growing outbreak but has not specified its source.

• Latent TB Infections Rising:

79 individuals have been diagnosed with latent TB, meaning they are infected but do not yet show symptoms.

• CDC Response:

A team of four CDC experts is on-site, assisting with contact tracing, testing, and health education efforts.

• Global TB Challenge:

TB surpassed COVID-19 as the leading infectious disease-related cause of death in 2023, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).

• History of Large TB Outbreaks:

The largest known TB outbreak in the U.S. occurred between 2015 and 2017 at a homeless shelter in Georgia, resulting in 170 active cases and over 400 latent infections.

Statements from Leaders or Officials:
CDC Representative (Unnamed):
"Our team is working closely with local health officials to conduct contact tracing, provide testing and screening, and educate the community about tuberculosis prevention."With the Kansas City TB outbreak now among the largest recorded in the U.S., health authorities are ramping up testing and screening efforts. The CDC and KDHE are urging individuals in high-risk groups—such as those living in large group settings or those with frequent international travel history—to get tested for early detection and treatment. Given TB’s airborne transmission and potential fatality if untreated, public awareness and prompt medical intervention are crucial in containing the spread.