What students need to know about the recent tuberculosis outbreak in Kansas

  Wyandotte and Johnson counties reported a total of 67 active cases as of Jan. 24, in what was one of the largest documented outbreaks in U.S. history. 

  According to data from the CDC, tuberculosis cases have been on the rise for the last couple years since their gradual decline from 1953 when they started tracking cases. 

  Roo Wellness said that these increased levels of cases could have to do with different effects from the pandemic on TB testing.

“The primary reason cited by the CDC is the significant disruption to TB control programs during the pandemic, leading to less proactive case identification and treatment,” said Marny Robinson, Roo Wellness charge nurse.

  The full reason for the recent outbreak has not been discovered, but government officials and the Roo Wellness center say that there does not need to be any public concern at this time.

“Kansas public health officials are doing their jobs, treating any active cases and reaching out to any contacts exposed,” said Robinson. “Be proactive with your own healthcare. If you’re concerned, get tested.”

  Tuberculosis is a bacterial infection that mainly affects the lungs. It is spread through the air when a person with active TB coughs, sneezes, sings or talks. Individuals with latent TB do not spread the disease.

  If students are worried about contamination in large social settings, Roo Wellness advises them to “Wear a mask, N95 is best, and don’t be afraid to keep some distance.”

  This advice also applies to other bacterias and viruses that are present mainly during the winter season.

“It’s not even just TB, it’s influenza, Covid and all of these things, especially with the temperatures changing,” said Kaylee McElvain, senior studying biology. “It affects your respiratory system. I think that all of that together can spread sickness.”

  Symptoms of TB include a cough, chest pain, fatigue and a fever. There are simple ways to protect yourself and others from getting the infection.

“Cough and sneeze into a tissue, drop the tissue into a trash container and wash your hands with soap and water,” said Robinson. “This practice can also help prevent the flu germs from spreading.”[email protected]