Westchester Reporter

The Westchester County Department of Health is observing World TB Day, emphasizing the importance of early detection and coordinated care in combating tuberculosis (TB). This day commemorates the discovery of the bacteria causing TB in 1882.

TB remains a leading infectious disease globally, though it is both preventable and curable. An estimated 1.7 billion people worldwide are infected with TB, while in the United States, 13 million individuals have latent TB. Without treatment, these individuals may develop active TB, potentially spreading the disease.

In 2024, 49 residents aged between two and 92 were confirmed to have active TB in Westchester County. The disease also affected many others exposed to infectious TB at various locations such as workplaces, schools, homes, social settings, or healthcare facilities.

Health Commissioner Dr. Sherlita Amler stated: “Screening by a medical provider is important because this disease can affect anyone, and those who don’t know they have early disease can spread TB to people who are closest to them, even when they have no symptoms. The right treatment can stop TB.”

New cases of active TB primarily arise from those with latent infections who initially show no symptoms. Between five to fifteen percent of individuals with latent TB eventually develop symptoms and can then transmit the infection through coughing or sneezing. Diabetics face a higher risk of developing active TB at about twenty percent likelihood.

Identifying individuals with latent infections through simple skin or blood tests followed by antibiotic treatment is crucial for stopping the spread of TB. Many people remain unaware of their risk without testing. Those most vulnerable include young children, pregnant women, and individuals with weakened immune systems due to conditions like diabetes or HIV.

To safeguard public health, the Health Department assesses and treats inactive TB among all demographics including children and pregnant women. For those diagnosed with active TB, care and medication are provided without any out-of-pocket expenses.

Amler further commented: “Early detection is so important and both preventive TB treatment and active TB treatment have benefited from medical and technological advances that have greatly reduced their duration. This has helped us reduce the number of active cases of TB in Westchester and limit the spread of this disease.”

For more information on services offered by the department regarding tuberculosis management or prevention measures call (914) 813-5000 or visit their website at www.westchestergov.com/health.