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Tuberculosis (TB) is a contagious disease that damages the lungs (and sometimes other parts of the body) with toxic bacteria.

Individuals who come down with TB commonly experience symptoms like bloody coughing episodes, fevers, weight loss, and even night sweats. They may also lose their appetite for food, feel tired during waking hours, and incur swelling that lasts for weeks on end.

Antibiotics are the best form of treatment for TB; they can halt the growth of harmful bacteria, thus preventing it from targeting a person's lungs. People who do end up taking this medication may need to remain on it for up to six months before they're fully free of tuberculosis.

For years, this disease was largely viewed as a thing of the past. Though the CDC just revealed that TB is making an unfortunate comeback.

Why we're seeing more tuberculosis cases

Between 2022 and 2023, a 16% climb in TB happened across the United States, following a three-decade decline in cases. Medical officials believe this new surge is at least partially due to the disruptions caused by COVID.

At the height of this period, medical resources that would have otherwise focused on a variety of health-related issues instead pivoted to coronavirus. This inevitably meant certain things would fall through the cracks, leaving the medical community having to later play catch-up.

As it turns out, the CDC also believes COVID - and all the chaos surrounding it - led to a cutback in necessary diagnoses and medicinal care for tuberculosis. Without treatment, people with TB are more likely to suffer worse symptoms and pass the illness on to others.

Per the CDC, Texas, New York, Hawaii, California, and Alaska each made 2023's list of states with the greatest amount of TB infections.

How to stay safe and healthy in 2024

Tuberculosis is no joke and you'll want to avoid it, if at all possible.

Some excellent preventative measures include washing your hands after coughing or sneezing and avoiding physical contact with individuals who have TB. Eating well and exercising to promote a strong immune system can also make your body more equipped to fight off tuberculosis bacteria.