Despite the end of the pandemic, tuberculosis remains the deadliest infectious disease in the world.

Tuberculosis (TB) has regained its position as the world’s deadliest infectious disease, surpassing COVID-19, according to a spokeswoman for the Centers for Disease Control. TB is caused by bacteria spread through the air when someone coughs, sneezes, or talks, affecting primarily the lungs but also other parts of the body.

In the U.S., TB cases have risen by 16% from 2022 to 2023, reaching 9,615 cases nationwide, marking a concerning trend after 27 years of declining rates. Globally, an estimated 10.6 million people fall ill with TB each year, with 1.3 million deaths attributed to the disease.

Experts emphasize the importance of investing in contact tracing and rapid testing to detect TB infections early on. Drug-resistant TB poses a significant challenge, requiring complex treatment methods.

The increase in TB cases is linked to the diversion of medical resources to combat COVID-19, resulting in a backlog of cases. Despite the availability of a quick test for TB, limited access due to high prices remains a barrier to diagnosis and treatment.

As travel restrictions ease and more Americans venture abroad, the risk of TB transmission increases. Health officials urge travelers to take precautions, especially those working in healthcare settings where TB patients may be encountered.

Efforts to address latent TB infections and strengthen public health infrastructure are crucial in combating the resurgence of this deadly disease. With TB reclaiming its position as a global health threat, proactive measures and investments are needed to prevent further spread and save lives.