There have been 67 confirmed active tuberculosis (TB) cases in Kansas, most in Wyandotte County near Kansas City, since the start of 2024. Although the risk to the public remains low, this outbreak is the largest recorded TB outbreak in U.S. history since tracking began in the 1950s. Local health officials and the CDC are working to track cases and offer treatment to those exposed to prevent further spread.

Tuberculosis (TB) is a bacterial infection that usually affects the lungs. An active TB infection causes sickness. Inactive TB occurs when an infection does not cause illness. An inactive infection is not contagious but can cause illness in the future. Of the 146 cases confirmed in Kansas, 67 were active and 79 were inactive TB cases. Both types of TB infections are treatable.

Tuberculosis is spread through the air when a person with an active infection coughs, speaks, or sings. It is more common for TB to spread indoors and in enclosed spaces between close contacts like family members, coworkers, and friends. TB is typically spread through prolonged contact with an infected person meaning the risk to the public is low.

The risk to the general public in Wyandotte County and surrounding counties is low. State and local health departments are working together to conduct case investigations identifying those who are sick and their close contacts to provide testing and treatment. Free treatment is provided for anyone who is uninsured or unable to afford treatment. Health department staff provide support throughout the treatment process and can answer patients’ questions.

While a vaccine exists for TB, it is not generally used in the U.S., as TB is not a common disease.