US Sees Rise in World’s Deadliest Infectious Disease
Why this is here: The article details an outbreak at a San Francisco high school, revealing 207 individuals tested positive for latent tuberculosis, highlighting how the disease can emerge even in developed nations with established healthcare systems.
The world’s deadliest infectious disease, tuberculosis, is increasing in the US. A recent outbreak occurred at Archbishop Riordan High School in San Francisco, revealing a high rate of latent tuberculosis among students. While tuberculosis primarily affects developing nations—accounting for about 87 percent of new cases in 30 low- and middle-income countries—rates are climbing in wealthy countries after 30 years of decline.
Approximately 13 million Americans have latent tuberculosis, which can become active and contagious if untreated. Delays in diagnosis, exacerbated by the Covid-19 pandemic, and funding cuts to public health programs contribute to the resurgence. Treating active tuberculosis costs over $50 times more than preventative treatment for latent cases.
The San Francisco Department of Public Health reports four confirmed and three suspected active cases connected to the school as of February 24. Officials emphasize the risk to the broader community remains low but warn that continued disinvestment in public health could jeopardize progress.