The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has reported an 11% increase in tuberculosis (TB) cases in England in 2023, with 4,855 notifications compared to 4,380 in 2022. Despite the rise, England remains classified as a low-incidence country, with a rate of 8.5 TB notifications per 100,000 people.
While TB notifications are far below the peak levels recorded in 2011 (15.6 notifications per 100,000 population), the disease remains a pressing public health concern. UKHSA highlights that 80% of TB cases in 2023 were among individuals born outside the UK, with India, Pakistan, Nigeria, and Romania being the most common countries of origin.
Key Statistics on TB in England:
* Highest Rates in London: London reported the highest TB rate at 18.7 notifications per 100,000 people, reflecting the disease’s strong association with urban areas.
* Vulnerable UK-Born Populations: Among UK-born individuals, TB is more common in those experiencing homelessness, drug or alcohol dependence, or contact with the criminal justice system.
* Drug-Resistant TB Cases: Although low, cases of drug-resistant TB requiring complex treatment increased in 2023, with 2.4% of lab-confirmed cases classified as multi-drug resistant.
The UK’s Efforts to Combat TB
UKHSA has implemented advanced Whole Genome Sequencing diagnostics to quickly identify drug-resistant TB, ensuring timely and effective treatment. Additionally, the agency is collaborating with partners to enhance TB prevention and treatment through the development of new therapies and vaccines.
Screening for TB also plays a vital role in controlling the disease. In 2023, over 1 million individuals from high-incidence countries underwent pre-entry TB screening, double the number screened in 2021. This process identified 505 cases of pulmonary TB, preventing entry until treatment was completed.
For latent TB, where the bacteria remain dormant, NHS England expanded its Latent TB Infection (LTBI) testing programme, screening 34,680 individuals in 2023—an increase of 98.4% compared to 2022. Of those tested, 15.1% were diagnosed with latent TB.
Understanding Tuberculosis: Symptoms and Prevention
TB is a bacterial infection that primarily affects the lungs but can impact other parts of the body. It spreads through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Symptoms include:
* A persistent cough lasting more than three weeks
* Fever or high temperature
* Night sweats
* Loss of appetite
* Unexplained weight loss
In cases where TB affects areas beyond the lungs, symptoms may include swollen glands and joint pain.
Dr. Esther Robinson, Head of the TB Unit at UKHSA, urged awareness of TB symptoms, especially among those from countries with higher TB prevalence. “A persistent cough with mucus lasting more than three weeks may not always be flu or COVID-19—it could be TB. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial,” she stated.
Global and National Context
TB remains a leading global health challenge, with the World Health Organization (WHO) estimating 10.8 million cases worldwide in 2023, a 7% increase from 2020.
While TB in England remains at lower levels compared to historical peaks, targeted efforts to improve detection, prevention, and treatment aim to curb the spread of this serious but preventable disease.
