The United States recorded over 10,300 tuberculosis (TB) cases in 2024, an 8% increase from the previous year, marking the highest case count in more than a decade, according to preliminary data released this month by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The surge has affected all age groups, with 34 states and the District of Columbia reporting an uptick in infections.

CDC officials attribute the increase primarily to international travel and migration, as most TB cases in the U.S. are diagnosed in individuals born outside the country. The infection rate among non-U.S.-born individuals stands at 15.5 per 100,000 persons, significantly higher than the 0.8 per 100,000 rate among U.S.-born individuals. In addition, underlying health conditions that weaken the immune system may be contributing to the rise by allowing latent TB infections to develop into active disease.

Several states have experienced significant spikes in TB cases. Kansas, for instance, saw a 148% increase in its TB rate, rising from 1.6 to 3.9 cases per 100,000 persons between 2023 and 2024. Alaska and Hawaii continue to report the highest TB case rates in the country, with 12.7 and 8.1 cases per 100,000 persons, respectively.

To address the rising numbers, the CDC is urging stronger collaboration between TB public health programs and healthcare providers. Efforts must focus on increasing TB awareness, expanding testing among at-risk individuals, and promoting treatment for latent TB infections to prevent the disease from becoming active. Timely evaluation and treatment remain essential to controlling its spread and protecting communities.

According to the CDC, TB cases had been steadily declining for nearly three decades, with a significant drop in 2020. However, the numbers began rising again in 2021, likely due to pandemic-related healthcare disruptions, an increase in postpandemic travel and migration, and outbreaks in several states. As cases continue to climb, public health officials emphasize the need for proactive screening, early intervention, and community engagement to curb the spread of TB in the U.S.