Infectious Disease Specialist Urges Vigilance as TB Cases Spike
A leading disease specialist has issued a warning following a concerning rise in tuberculosis (TB) cases across England, with London and the West Midlands experiencing significant spikes. Dr. Patrick Lillie, a consultant in infectious diseases at NHS Humber Health Partnership, cautioned that while these regions have been heavily affected, the risk is growing in other areas as well.
According to the latest NHS data, England saw a 13% increase in TB cases last year, with homeless individuals and those struggling with drug or alcohol addiction among the most vulnerable. TB, a bacterial infection primarily affecting the lungs, spreads through coughing and sneezing, making crowded or poorly ventilated living conditions a major risk factor.
Deprivation and Social Factors Fueling the Spread
Dr. Lillie emphasized that TB is closely linked to poverty and social challenges, including addiction, homelessness, and substandard housing. “London and the West Midlands are already seeing an increase in cases, but because TB is associated with deprivation, other cities—including Hull—could also experience more infections,” he said.
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) reported an alarming 18.2% annual rise in TB diagnoses across Yorkshire and the Humber in 2024, signaling a widening impact beyond major urban centers.
Serious Health Risks and Urgent Call for Testing
TB can affect not only the lungs but also lymph nodes, bones, and even the brain, potentially leading to life-threatening conditions like meningitis. Symptoms include:
- A persistent cough lasting more than three weeks
- High fever or severe night sweats
- Unexplained weight loss and loss of appetite
- Extreme fatigue
“TB is a serious infection, and early detection is critical,” Dr. Lillie stressed. “Anyone experiencing symptoms should get tested immediately. Prompt treatment greatly improves recovery chances and helps prevent further transmission.”
Health authorities are urging at-risk communities and healthcare providers to remain vigilant as cases continue to climb. With TB resurging in vulnerable populations, experts warn that without intervention, the outbreak could expand further, putting additional strain on public health systems.
References:
- Warning sounded over rise in tuberculosis cases – BBC – (Accessed on March 25, 2025)
- ‘World’s deadliest infectious disease’ on the rise in UK as alarm sounded for millions of Britons – GB News – (Accessed on March 25, 2025)
- Urgent warning over surge in killer Victorian disease that makes patients cough up blood – UK about to lose its ‘low incidence’ status – DailyMail – (Accessed on March 25, 2025)
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