New York City sees rise in tuberculosis cases, possibly driven by COVID fatigue and migrant crisis: report

New York City is reportedly experiencing a sudden increase in cases of tuberculosis, a disease that was widespread in the early 20th century. There are now concerns that there could be a resurgence in the US

The Daily Mail reported that there is some data suggesting that 500 new cases of tuberculosis have been officially diagnosed in the city so far in 2023. This represents a 20% increase in illness compared to the same time last year.

The prevalence of tuberculosis in the city is at its highest in more than a decade. Some speculate that this could mean the disease is spreading to other parts of the country. A number of health authorities have suggested that a key reason for the rise in the disease is COVID-19 fatigue, as more people avoid clinics and treatments.

However, there is also the possibility that the refugee crisis in the Big Apple has something to do with the sudden rise in tuberculosis. More than 100,000 migrants have flocked to the city since the spring, and many of them lack the appropriate vaccinations that would otherwise reduce the likelihood of contracting the disease.

“When New York City has particularly high spikes in tuberculosis and other infectious diseases, that tends to be kind of an indicator for the rest of the country,” said Elizabeth Lovinger, director of health policy at the Treatment Action Group. The Treatment Action Group is a public health advocacy group specifically focused on tuberculosis.

Tuberculosis experts say the situation in New York City is particularly concerning because there has been a dramatic decline in efforts to control the disease since the disease’s last surge in the early 1990s Politically.

Due to budget cuts by the Bureau of Tuberculosis Control, it is possible that New York City could see another surge in cases. Politico noted that the disease has generally been uncommon in the United States since cases increased during the AIDS epidemic. Tuberculosis is reportedly still a leading cause of death around the world, especially in underdeveloped countries.

The disease is caused by bacteria that spread through the air and can be fatal if not treated properly.

While migrants are at risk of contracting the disease, they are also possible vectors of the disease. However, the city has not yet announced any measures to curb the rise in cases.

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