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California has issued a significant health alert following the emergence of a tuberculosis outbreak, resulting in one fatality and the hospitalization of nine others.
The tuberculosis outbreak, which has claimed one life and hospitalized nine individuals, has prompted a major health alert in California. Investigators have confirmed 14 cases of tuberculosis as of Monday, with an additional 170 individuals identified for screening due to potential exposure to the disease.
Health officials have linked the outbreak to visitors staying at a Long Beach hotel, though the specific establishment has not been disclosed.
Tuberculosis, a potentially lethal respiratory infection spread through coughs and sneezes, poses a global health threat, claiming approximately 1.6 million lives annually.
In response to the outbreak, Long Beach’s City Health Officer, Dr. Anissa Davis, declared a local public health emergency on Thursday. Authorities anticipate a surge in tuberculosis cases and are prepared to provide treatment to those diagnosed with active TB disease or latent TB infection, including temporary housing, food, transportation, and treatment expenses.
While neighboring Los Angeles County has not reported any cases, the county’s health department has pledged assistance to Long Beach in managing the outbreak.
The United States experienced a surge in tuberculosis cases in 2023, with over 9,600 reported cases, marking a 16% increase from the previous year. California saw a 15% rise in tuberculosis cases in 2023, with 2,113 reported infections. Despite an initial decrease in cases during the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic, officials note a subsequent increase in tuberculosis cases.
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