Long Beach, California, authorities have declared a health emergency in response to a tuberculosis outbreak that has resulted in at least one death and over a dozen infections.
The city’s health officer issued the declaration on May 2 to allocate more resources for tracking, screening, and treating those exposed in the outbreak, which has been linked to a local hotel, as stated in a news release.
As of April 29, there have been 14 cases reported, with one fatality, nine hospitalizations, and approximately 170 individuals identified as potentially exposed.
The outbreak is currently contained within a specific population, and the overall risk to the public is deemed low, according to the city health department. The affected population faces significant barriers to care, such as homelessness, mental health issues, substance abuse, and underlying medical conditions.
The health department mentioned that individuals connected to a particular single room occupancy hotel are at risk of exposure but did not disclose the hotel’s name.
The facility is privately operated and not affiliated with the city of Long Beach. Health Department officials are reaching out to those who stayed at the hotel during the outbreak or may have been exposed.
Tuberculosis is caused by airborne bacteria that primarily affect the lungs. The U.S. saw the highest number of tuberculosis cases in a decade in 2023, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
California reported 2,113 new cases in 2023, marking a 15% increase from the previous year, as per the state’s Department of Public Health.
Several weeks ago, the state issued a health advisory in response to the rising tuberculosis cases, urging healthcare providers to consider tuberculosis in the diagnosis of respiratory illnesses and implement appropriate testing and treatment measures.
Individuals at high risk for tuberculosis include those with compromised immune systems, recent travel to high-risk countries, homelessness, incarceration, or close contact with infected individuals.
A previous report released by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services highlighted the release of thousands of underage illegal immigrants diagnosed with latent tuberculosis across the country.
What to Look For
Tuberculosis is a severe bacterial infection that can be fatal if left untreated. It is crucial to recognize the symptoms, which include a persistent cough, fever, weight loss, fatigue, and night sweats.
Health officials emphasize the importance of early diagnosis and treatment to prevent the spread of tuberculosis, as the bacteria can affect various organs beyond the lungs if left unchecked.
Tuberculosis spreads through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes, primarily affecting crowded or confined environments. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are essential to contain the infection and prevent further transmission.
(The Associated Press contributed to this report.)
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