In Kansas 67 cases of tuberculosis: it is the largest US outbreak since 1950

Kansas is facing an unprecedented tuberculosis outbreak, with 67 active cases confirmed since the beginning of the year. In addition to the active cases, 79 latent infections have been reported. So far, the cases are primarily in Wyandotte and Johnson counties. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC), this is the largest documented tuberculosis outbreak in the United States since 1950, when the CDC began tracking and reporting cases of the disease.

According to the CDC, while there is a vaccine against tuberculosis (Bacille Calmette-Guérin), it is not commonly used in the United States.

In the meantime, the Kansas Department of Health and Environment KDHE is working to ensure that patients receive appropriate treatment. KDHE spokesperson Jill Bronaugh stressed that in addition, treating cases should have the effect of limiting the spread of this disease caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis .

This is spread through the air when those infected cough or talk. Therefore, people who spend time in close contact with someone who has tuberculosis are at greater risk of infection. Tuberculosis typically affects the lungs, but can also damage the brain, kidneys or spine. This can manifest itself latently as “Latent Tuberculosis Infection” when the bacteria that have infected a human body are inactive and do not cause symptoms.

The infected person in this case is not contagious but can develop the disease if not treated in time. Tuberculosis can instead manifest itself as Tuberculosis Disease when it is active, that is, contagious, and the symptoms are clear. Those affected may suffer from a persistent cough, chest pain, tiredness, weight loss, and night sweats.

Kansas health officials are currently routinely testing anyone who tests positive to determine whether they have latent tuberculosis infection or active tuberculosis. Treatment for latent tuberculosis typically involves one or more drugs, such as isoniazid or rifampin, for up to nine months. Active tuberculosis disease can also be treated with combinations of drugs, including ethambutol, rifampin, and pyrazinamide for longer than nine months.