A disease once synonymous with Victorian-era squalor and the tragic fates of literary figures like Emily Brontë and George Orwell is making a comeback in parts of the United Kingdom. Tuberculosis, or TB, isn’t a relic of the past-cases are rising, and health officials are taking notice.
TB Cases Rise Across the UK,Sparking concern
A surge in tuberculosis cases,especially in the northeast of England,is prompting a renewed focus on public health measures.
- The UK reported 5,480 cases of tuberculosis in 2024, the highest number recorded.
- The northeast of England is experiencing the most notable increase in cases.
- poverty and overcrowding are identified as key factors contributing to the resurgence.
- Drug-resistant strains of TB are also a growing concern, with 65 cases reported last year.
What exactly *is* tuberculosis? It’s a bacterial infection that most frequently enough attacks the lungs, causing a persistent cough, sometimes accompanied by coughing up blood, and significant weight loss. But it’s not just a historical footnote; the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) data reveals a concerning trend. In 2025, there were 5,424 reported cases of TB across the UK, a 25% increase from the 2022 figures.
A Regional Disparity
While cases are increasing nationally, the impact isn’t evenly distributed. The northeast of England is currently the epicenter of the resurgence, followed by the East Midlands, yorkshire and the Humber, and the northwest. Experts are particularly worried about the North East, noting a troubling delay between the onset of symptoms and the initiation of treatment.
Symptoms of tuberculosis:
- A persistent cough that lasts three or more weeks
- Coughing up blood or sputum
- Chest pain, or pain when breathing or coughing
- Fatigue
- Night sweats
- Fever
- Loss of appetite
- Unexplained weight loss
- Swollen lymph nodes in the neck
- Abdominal pain
- Blood in your urine
- Pain in your tummy or pelvic pain
- Constipation
- Dark or cloudy urine
- A headache
- Being sick
- Feeling confused
- A stiff neck
- A rash on the legs, face, or other parts of the body
A specialist board has been established to address the recent increase in cases and coordinate a response.
Q: Is tuberculosis curable?
A: Yes, tuberculosis is curable with a course of antibiotics, typically lasting several months. Early diagnosis and adherence to the prescribed treatment regimen are essential for a accomplished outcome.
If you are concerned about potential TB symptoms, please consult a healthcare professional.
