Rise in Tuberculosis Cases

Tuberculosis cases in England have increased by 13% in 2024, totaling 5,480 cases, contrasting with 4,850 in the previous year. This rise brings the notification rate to 9.5 cases per 100,000 people, indicating a significant public health concern despite England's classification as a low-incidence country for TB. Notably, 81.5% of the reported cases originated from individuals born outside the UK, highlighting a connection between TB prevalence and urban deprivation. Dr. Esther Robinson from the UK Health Security Agency advocates for heightened awareness of TB symptoms, particularly among those from high-prevalence countries.