Kansas City is facing an unprecedented tuberculosis (TB) outbreak, with 67 active cases reported across Wyandotte and Johnson counties as of January 24, 2025. Health officials have warned that the outbreak remains ongoing and may not yet be fully contained.
According to the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE), Wyandotte County has been hit hardest, accounting for 60 cases, while seven cases have been identified in Johnson County.
A Record-Breaking Outbreak
The outbreak, first reported in 2024, has grown into the largest documented TB outbreak in U.S. history due to the rapid increase in cases over a short period, said KDHE spokesperson Jill Bronaugh.
“This outbreak is still ongoing, which means there could be more cases,” Bronaugh stated. She also noted that other states are currently dealing with large TB outbreaks, though none on this scale.
Despite its severity, KDHE has emphasized that the general public faces a “very low risk,” especially in counties outside the affected areas. However, officials have called for continued vigilance to curb further spread.
Coordinated Efforts to Contain the Outbreak
To address the outbreak, KDHE and local health departments are collaborating with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Together, they are tracking cases, treating infected individuals, and implementing preventative measures to halt the spread of the disease.
Statewide, TB cases have seen a significant decline. In 2024, Kansas reported 109 active TB cases and 626 latent infections. By early 2025, these numbers dropped to just one active case and seven latent infections, signaling progress in containment efforts.
Progress in Wyandotte County
In Wyandotte County, where the outbreak began, active cases have decreased from 65 to around 32, marking progress in controlling the situation. KDHE Deputy Secretary Ashley Goss described the outbreak as “unprecedented” during a recent Senate Public Health and Welfare Committee meeting.
“Some of you are aware, we have and still are mobilizing staff and resources to address this unprecedented tuberculosis outbreak,” Goss told lawmakers. She added that CDC specialists are on the ground providing additional support.
“This is normal when there’s a large outbreak of any kind. The CDC lends resources to help us put a stop to it,” Goss explained. “We are trending in the right direction right now.”
Treatment and Recovery
Goss emphasized that patients with active TB typically become non-contagious after 10 days of medication and three consecutive negative sputum tests. Once cleared, they can safely return to work and resume normal activities, provided they continue their prescribed treatment.
Treatment for both active and latent TB cases generally lasts several months. Active TB requires a strict antibiotic regimen to eliminate the infection and prevent further spread, while latent TB treatment is essential to stop the disease from progressing to the active, contagious stage.
KDHE is also working closely with large employers impacted by the outbreak to manage cases and prevent additional transmission.
Understanding Tuberculosis
TB is caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis and primarily affects the lungs, though it can spread to other parts of the body, including the brain, kidneys, or spine.
The disease exists in two forms:
- Latent TB: The bacteria remain dormant in the body, causing no symptoms and posing no risk of transmission. However, untreated latent TB can develop into active TB.
- Active TB: This contagious form of the disease can be life-threatening and is marked by symptoms such as:
- Persistent cough lasting three weeks or more
- Chest pain
- Coughing up blood or mucus
- Fatigue
- Weight loss
- Fever, chills, and night sweats
TB spreads through airborne particles when an infected person coughs, speaks, or sings, particularly in enclosed spaces with poor ventilation.
Preventing the Spread of TB
Preventing TB outbreaks requires early detection, timely treatment of latent infections, and public awareness. Treating latent TB before it progresses to the active stage is crucial, as is ensuring those with active TB adhere to their prescribed antibiotic regimen.
Health officials emphasize that public education is vital to reducing the stigma surrounding TB and encouraging people to seek treatment if exposed.
A Call for Vigilance
While the decline in cases statewide is encouraging, the Kansas City outbreak highlights the need for vigilance, early intervention, and sustained efforts to control the spread of infectious diseases.
As KDHE and CDC officials continue to monitor and manage the situation, the outbreak serves as a reminder of the importance of proactive public health measures. With the right resources and attention, health officials are optimistic that the situation can be contained, preventing further escalation and safeguarding the health of Kansans.
