Cases Of Tuberculosis On The Rise In NI

New figures released by the Public Health Agency (PHA) on World TB Day have revealed a concerning trend of increasing tuberculosis (TB) cases in Northern Ireland since 2021.

In 2024, the PHA was notified of 86 cases of TB, marking a rise from 78 cases in 2023, 69 cases in 2022, and 54 cases in 2021.

Dr Jillian Johnston, Consultant in Health Protection at the PHA, explained how TB is transmitted. "TB is an infection that is spread in the air by inhaling small droplets from someone with infectious TB of the lungs who coughs, sneezes, talks or sings," she said. "Although TB mainly affects the lungs, it can affect any part of the body. The good news is that TB is treatable and curable for the vast majority of people, however early detection and treatment is important to help avoid health complications and to reduce the risk of spreading the disease to others."

Despite the overall rate of TB remaining low in Northern Ireland, Dr Johnston stressed the need for continued vigilance. "While the overall rate of TB is low in Northern Ireland, we need to remain vigilant to the serious risks it can pose," she stated.

The PHA highlighted that while anyone can contract TB, certain groups are at higher risk due to social risk factors (SRF). These include individuals in close contact with an infected person, those with lifestyle or social risk factors like alcohol or drug misuse or homelessness, people with conditions that weaken their immune system, and those who have lived in or spent time in countries with high TB levels. The farming community is also identified as being at a slightly increased risk due to Bovine Tuberculosis. While the overall risk of contracting bovine TB remains very low, there were three cases reported in Northern Ireland in 2024. The PHA provided advice for those working in the farming industry to minimise their risk of exposure, including thorough hand washing, immediate cleaning and covering of skin wounds, avoiding unpasteurised milk and dairy products, ensuring consumption of unpasteurised milk is from officially TB-free herds, and avoiding eating or drinking in animal areas.

The UK has committed to the World Health Organization's (WHO) target of eliminating TB by 2035, which involves supporting an annual reduction in TB incidence and transmission. The PHA is collaborating with HSC Trusts and other organisations to raise awareness and improve TB diagnosis and treatment, particularly for those at higher risk. This collaborative approach also involves addressing the wider social determinants of health.

The PHA is urging everyone to be aware of the symptoms of TB, which include a persistent cough, fever, and unexplained weight loss, and to consult their GP if concerned. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial in managing the condition.

The PHA listed the following symptoms that may indicate TB: fever and night sweats, a persistent cough, unexplained weight loss, and blood in sputum at any time.

Further information on TB can be found at www.pha.site/tb-leaflet and www.nidirect.gov.uk/conditions/tuberculosis-tb.