Kansas City is battling a historic tuberculosis outbreak affecting two counties. Health officials warn the spread remains ongoing and may not be contained yet.
The Kansas City metro area is battling a tuberculosis (TB) outbreak, the largest in the United States, with 67 cases reported as of January 24, 2025. Wyandotte County has 60 cases, while Johnson County has recorded seven.
A doctor examines a lung x-ray | Source: Getty Images
The tuberculosis outbreak was first reported in 2024. It has since grown into the largest documented outbreak in U.S. history, according to Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) spokesperson Jill Bronaugh. “This is mainly due to the rapid number of cases in the short amount of time,” she said.
Despite the severity of the outbreak, which has predominantly affected Wyandotte County, the KDHE reports a “very low risk” to the general public, including nearby counties. However, officials urge continued vigilance to prevent further spread.
“This outbreak is still ongoing, which means that there could be more cases,” Bronaugh said. “There are a few other states that currently have large outbreaks that are also ongoing.”
In response, the KDHE and local health departments are collaborating with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to provide effective treatment and containment. Efforts include tracking cases, treating infected individuals, and implementing measures to prevent new infections.
Tuberculosis, caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis, mainly affects the lungs but can also spread to the brain, kidneys, spine, or other parts of the body, according to the CDC. In some cases, it impacts multiple areas at once, such as the lungs and lymph nodes.
While health officials continue to monitor and manage the outbreak, the rapid spread has underscored the importance of early detection, treatment, and public awareness in preventing further escalation.
