Warning sounded over rise in tuberculosis cases

A disease specialist has sounded a warning over a rise in cases of tuberculosis.

Dr Patrick Lillie, consultant in infectious disease at NHS Humber Health Partnership, said London and the West Midlands had already seen a spike in cases, but the risk elsewhere had increased, too.

According to the NHS, there was a 13% rise of TB cases in England last year, with homeless people or those with drug or alcohol addictions most at risk.

TB, which mainly affects the lungs, can be spread by coughing or sneezing.

Dr Lillie said: "London and the West Midlands are already seeing an increase in cases, but because TB is linked to deprivation and social issues such as drug and alcohol addiction, homelessness or close living in poor-quality housing, it's possible that other cities, including Hull, could see more cases, too.

"TB is a really serious infection so it's important that anyone showing symptoms of TB gets tested and, if confirmed, receives treatment quickly to give them the best chance of recovery."

The UK Health Security Agency said Yorkshire and the Humber saw an annual 18.2% increase in the number of people diagnosed with TB in 2024.

TB can impact lymph nodes, bones and the brain, causing meningitis.

Symptoms include a cough lasting more than three weeks, a high temperature or drenching night sweats, loss of appetite, unexplained weight loss and feeling tired or exhausted.

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