Public health officials reported Tuesday that active tuberculosis cases in San Diego County are up 17% from a year ago.
In 2023, 243 tuberculosis cases were reported, higher than the average of 205 in 2021 and 2022. Over the past decade, the number of annual reported cases has ranged from a high of 264 in 2019 to a low of 193 in 2020.
Tuberculosis is transmitted from person to person through the air when a person with tuberculosis coughs, talks, sings, or breathes. Symptoms may include a persistent cough, fever, night sweats, and unexplained weight loss.
“If you or a loved one has symptoms of tuberculosis, or if you think you may have been around someone with tuberculosis, it is important to call your doctor or health care provider to get tested,” County Public said Medical Officer of Health Dr. Wilma Wooten. “Tuberculosis cases are on the rise, not just in San Diego County, but across the state. We all need to be aware of the symptoms and act quickly to stop the spread of tuberculosis and protect ourselves, our families, and ourselves.” “We need to wake up our community,” she added.
Cases have declined during the coronavirus pandemic, according to the county. Several coronavirus-related precautions, such as masks and social distancing, may have reduced tuberculosis transmission. Additionally, due to the strain on the medical system and changes in the way people seek care for themselves, they may not be able to receive a diagnosis or may take longer to see a doctor.
More than 175,000 people in San Diego County are thought to have latent tuberculosis infection, but most people don't know it. Without preventive treatment, as many as 10% of these people may develop active, infectious tuberculosis.
The county will host the San Diego Tuberculosis Prevention Education and Community Engagement Summit on March 22 at the Southeastern Livewell Center. Members of the medical community and institutions are encouraged to attend and participate.
The county operates a tuberculosis clinic at the North Central Public Health Center, located at 5055 Ruffin Road. The Department of Public Health also provides testing at local health departments within the county.
