A map has unveiled the regions where tuberculosis (TB), one of the deadliest infectious diseases worldwide, is most prevalent. According to a recent report, London has been identified as the worst affected area in England and Wales for the infection. Last week alone, the capital recorded 43 suspected cases, double the number of the second most affected region.
TB, a bacterial infection transmitted through inhaling droplets from coughs or sneezes of an infected person, primarily affects the lungs but can impact any part of the body. With an estimated annual death toll of 1.6 million globally, TB is a leading cause of mortality. Although curable with antibiotics, it can pose serious risks if left untreated. While the BCG vaccine offers protection against TB, it is only administered to those at elevated risk of infection.
Experts have suggested that the recent increase in TB infections in the UK may be linked to rising poverty levels. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) collects data on suspected cases of infectious diseases like TB, although not all are confirmed through laboratory tests. In the week of April 8 to 14 alone, there were 110 suspected TB cases reported, up from 74 the previous week.
Additionally, recent data on confirmed cases reveals a concerning uptick in TB prevalence in England and Wales. Figures from February indicate a more than ten percent rise in infections last year, from 4,380 in 2022 to 4,850 in 2023, marking the third national increase in TB infections over the past decade. Following London, the North West emerged as the second most likely region to contract TB, with 19 suspected cases reported. Yorkshire and the Humber followed in third place with 12 suspected cases. The West Midlands and the East of England closely trailed behind, with 11 and 10 suspected cases, respectively.
The South East reported seven suspected infections, ranking sixth, while the South West fared even better with five suspected cases, securing seventh place. The East Midlands registered only two suspected cases, placing eighth. Wales reported just one suspected case, ranking ninth, while the North East emerged as the least affected region, with no reported cases by doctors.
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