The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has published new data which shows reported notifications of Tuberculosis (TB) in England increasing by 13.6% in 2024, compared to the previous year.
While 82% of cases were in people born outside the UK, numbers rose in both UK-born and non-UK-born populations. For those born in the UK, TB is more common among those experiencing homelessness, drug and alcohol dependence, or contact with the criminal justice system. TB remains closely linked to deprivation and is more common in large urban areas.
Despite rising case numbers, the overall risk to the general population remains low, and TB is both preventable and curable — with 84.4% of patients completing treatment within 12 months.
In response to the rise in cases, the UKHSA are urging organisations working with higher-risk groups to be aware of the signs and symptoms and promote awareness of the disease amongst these groups.
Homeless Link have created a new webpage which outlines what TB is, and the key signs and symptoms to be aware of. The UKHSA has also developed a Stakeholder Communications Toolkit with resources, background information, and social media materials.