Tuberculosis Outbreak in the U.S.: Are Schools Next? What to Know & How to Stay Safe!

As of January 2025, the state of Kansas is experiencing one of the largest Tuberculosis (TB) outbreaks in U.S. history, with 67 confirmed active cases and 79 confirmed dormant/inactive cases. https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=1436&utm

While the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) has not confirmed if any cases are linked to schools, it's essential for us to remain vigilant.

So, what is TB & why should we care?

TB is a germ that can make people very sick, mostly in their lungs. It spreads when someone with TB, coughs or sneezes.

TB poses significant health risks for kids. Studies indicate that children diagnosed with TB between ages 1 through 4 may experience impaired lung function. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36746196/ Also, kids exposed to TB are at a higher risk of developing the disease, than previously believed.  https://med.stanford.edu/news/all-news/2020/03/stanford-led-study-shows-high-tb-risk-in-kids-exposed-to-disease.html

Globally, TB remains a critical concern for kids' health. In 2023, nearly 1.25 million children and adolescents contracted TB, with almost 200,000 deaths, most of whom were under 5 years old. Many of these fatalities are attributed to challenges in early detection and diagnosis as well as limited access to vaccines and effective treatment.  https://www.who.int/news/item/20-11-2024-inclusion-for-every-child--reaching-every-child-affected-by-tuberculosis

Here are some key preventive measures and preparedness tips to stay safe from TB:

1. Stay Informed

• Keep up with local health department updates about TB cases.

• Know the symptoms: Persistent cough (lasting more than 3 weeks), fever, night sweats, weight loss and fatigue.

2. Practice Good Hygiene & Prevention

• Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing (use your elbow, not your hands).

• Regularly wash your hands, with soap, to reduce the spread of germs.

• Make sure classrooms and tight spaces have good ventilation—TB spreads through the air in crowded, enclosed spaces.

3. Medical Check-Ups

• If you have been exposed to someone with TB, request a TB skin test or blood test from your healthcare provider.

4. Encourage a Strong Immune System

• Get enough sleep, eat a balanced diet and stay active to support immune health.

• Vitamin D has been linked to better immune response against TB, so play outdoors or eat foods rich in vitamin D.

5. Raise Concerns as soon as they arise

   
   

• Ask school administrators about screening policies if there's a local outbreak.

• If a case is reported, encourage early testing for exposed kids.

• If your child has a weakened immune system, consult a doctor about extra precautions.

As parents and caregivers, staying informed and proactive is the best way to protect our kids. While TB can sound scary, simple steps like promoting good hygiene, ensuring proper ventilation and staying up-to-date on health screenings and vaccines can make a big difference.

**To learn more about TB screening and prevention visit the CDC's Tuberculosis resource page here or check with your local health department for TB testing and prevention programs. If your child's school has a reported case, consult your pediatrician for guidance on screening and next steps. Together, we can keep our kids safe and healthy!

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Sincerely, your TRUSTED Health Educator

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P.S. If you're looking for a speaker to discuss easy and practical ways to keep kids safe and healthy then consider hiring me for a virtual chat or workshop. To find out more about my topics, visit https://sandracoliny.wixsite.com/colinyconsultingllc

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P.S.S. Don't forget to purchase your copy of My First Coloring Book Of Healthy Habits For Kids: Top 16 Fruits & Vegetables for Great Health to KEEP your kids happy and healthy!

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