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What I'm Telling Parents About the Tuberculosis Outbreak In Kansas
The quick scoop about TB risks, symptoms, and how to keep our kids safe. Flu and more flu. A big recall on this sleeper. And a quick funny.
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About the Tuberculosis Outbreak in Kansas
If you haven’t heard, there’s been a tuberculosis (TB) outbreak in Kansas—it’s actually been going on for several months; a couple of people have died.
A few of you have asked if you should worry.
(Even though this outbreak is significant, it’s not the largest in U.S. history, and containment efforts are improving. Here’s what parents need to know about TB, the risks, and how to protect our children.
This is Tuberculosis (TB)
TB is a bacterial infection that primarily affects the lungs. It spreads through the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes, talks, or even sings. However, it is only contagious when the person has active TB, meaning they are experiencing symptoms.
There are two types of TB:
Active TB: Causes symptoms like a persistent cough (possibly with bloody mucus), night sweats, fever, weight loss, and swollen lymph nodes. This form is contagious. You DO NOT want to be around someone at this stage. (If you’re experiencing these symptoms, you definitely need to see your doctor. Give them a heads up that you think you might have TB, and wear a mask.)
Latent TB: The bacteria are present in the body but remain inactive. This form does not cause symptoms and is not contagious, but it can become active later.
The quick scoop on the Kansas outbreak
The outbreak started a year ago in the Kansas City, Kansas area.
As of January 2024, 67 people have active TB and are receiving treatment. An additional 79 individuals have latent TB.
Two people have died from TB.
Kansas health officials are saying that there’s no immediate threat to the general public, and containment efforts are proving effective.
How concerned should we be?
Look, TB is a serious illness. No doubt. But, it is treatable with antibiotics, and the risk of infection for the general public—including children—is currently low. The TB vaccine (BCG) is not routinely recommended in the U.S. because the infection rate is relatively low compared to other parts of the world.
What can parents do?
Be Aware of Symptoms – If your child has a prolonged cough, unexplained fever, night sweats, or weight loss, consult your pediatrician.
Encourage Good Hygiene – While TB is airborne, general good hygiene habits (like covering coughs and washing hands) help prevent the spread of many infections.
Stay Informed – Rely on trusted sources like the CDC and your local health department—NOT social media—for accurate updates.
Globally, TB remains a leading cause of infectious disease-related deaths, with over 1.25 million deaths in 2023. In the U.S., TB cases have been rising slightly, with 9,600 cases reported in 2023, the highest in a decade.
While the Kansas outbreak is concerning, public health efforts are making progress, and the situation is improving. So, don’t freak out. If your child is experiencing any of the symptoms of TB—listed above—AND you’ve recently been in Kansas or in contact with someone in Kansas, err on the side of caution and see your pediatrician.
🙂 Could this help someone you know? 🙂
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What I’m Seeing In Clinic
Still flu. More flu, flu, flu, flu. I feel like a bit like a broken record here, but influenza (all cases I’ve seen are type “A”) is still in full force. I’ve had a number of kids hospitalized with it this past week. My advice, don’t underestimate the bug. If your child has significant cough, worsening cough, trouble breathing, wheezing, or signs of dehydration, go to the doctor. It’s so bad around here that it took me over 4 hours and 7 phone calls to find an available hospital bed in our valley for a patient today because there is no room in the inn. Uggghhh! Is anyone else over cough and cold season yet?
The Funny This Week
A cute 5 year-old came into the clinic this week with Influenza (see above). The child was remarkably articulate and was telling me all about his symptoms. After describing how he threw up at school, he quickly followed with this reassuring comment, “Don’t worry, I didn’t throw up my energy.”
Good thing I had a mask on so he couldn’t see me laughing. I love these kids!
Recalls & Alerts: Kyte Slumber Suits
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Legal Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional advice or medical treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or the health and welfare of your child. We do not endorse any specific products or brands mentioned in this article. Readers are encouraged to perform their own research and consult with appropriate professionals before making any decisions based on the information provided herein.