Multiple Tuberculosis Cases Reported in Maine, California Amid Nationwide Rise

Tuberculosis (TB) cases are increasing in the United States after decades of decline, with three active cases recently reported in Maine's Greater Portland area, and additional cases confirmed at high schools in California and Michigan. Health officials in Maine emphasize that the three cases are not linked and have different sources of infection, while efforts are underway to identify and test anyone who may have been exposed. The CDC reports a nationwide rise in TB cases since 2021, with most infections occurring among foreign-born individuals, though the agency does not directly link this trend to immigration policies. TB, a bacterial infection primarily affecting the lungs but capable of infecting other organs, is spread through the air and can cause symptoms like persistent cough, chest pain, fever, and fatigue; it remains the world's deadliest infectious disease, causing over one million deaths annually worldwide. Despite its severity, TB is preventable and curable with antibiotics, and health officials urge the public to remain vigilant, especially amid the rise in respiratory illnesses including flu, COVID-19, and colds. Residents are advised to seek medical attention if experiencing persistent respiratory symptoms and to take precautions to prevent the spread of infections.