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Understanding the 2024-2025 Tuberculosis (TB) Outbreak in Wyandotte County, Kansas 

In 2024, Wyandotte County, Kansas, experienced a significant outbreak of tuberculosis (TB), a disease that mainly affects the lungs. As of January 2025, there have been 67 active TB cases and 79 latent (inactive) infections reported in the area.  Kansas Reflector 

What Is Tuberculosis? 

TB is an illness caused by bacteria that usually attacks the lungs but can affect other parts of the body. It spreads through the air when someone with active TB coughs or sneezes. Not everyone who breathes in the bacteria gets sick; some people have latent TB, meaning they have the bacteria in their bodies but don't feel sick and can't spread it to others. However, without treatment, latent TB can turn into active TB, which does make people sick and can spread to others.  CDC 

Symptoms of Active TB 

If someone has active TB, they might experience: 

A cough that lasts more than three weeks 

Chest pain 

Coughing up blood 

Feeling tired all the time 

Night sweats 

Fever 

Chills 

Losing weight without trying 

It's important to remember that these symptoms can also be signs of other illnesses. If your child shows any of these symptoms, especially if they've been around someone with TB, it's a good idea to talk to a doctor.  KidsHealth 

Should Families Be Worried? 

Health officials say that the risk to the general public is low. The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) is working hard to find and treat people with TB to stop it from spreading. They are also following guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to manage the situation.  Wycokck 

What Can Families Do? 

Stay Informed: Keep up with news from reliable sources like the KDHE and local health departments. 

Know the Symptoms: Being aware of the signs of TB can help you act quickly if needed. 

Encourage Good Health Habits: Teach children to cover their mouths when they cough or sneeze and to wash their hands regularly. 

Consult Healthcare Providers: If you think your child has been exposed to TB or shows symptoms, see a doctor for testing and

Remember, while the outbreak is serious, health officials are taking steps to control it. By staying informed and following health guidelines, families can help keep themselves and their communities safe.