Tuberculosis

Clear→ stable

RespiratoryVaccine available

Current NYS Status

1,089 cases in 2024 — near the 5-year baseline of ~1,150.

2024 statewide cases: 1,089

Source: NYSDOH Annual Communicable Disease Report 2024 + 5-yr baseline

What is it?

Tuberculosis (TB) is a serious bacterial infection caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis, spread through the air when people with active TB disease cough or sneeze. NYS reported 1,089 cases in 2024 — among the highest rates nationally, concentrated in New York City.

How it spreads

Spread through the air when a person with active TB disease in the lungs coughs, speaks, or sneezes. TB is not spread through casual contact, surfaces, or shared food. Latent TB infection does not spread to others.

Symptoms

Active TB: persistent cough lasting 3+ weeks, coughing up blood or sputum, chest pain, weakness, weight loss, fever, night sweats. Latent TB has no symptoms.

Who is at risk?

People who have spent time with someone with active TB; immigrants from high-TB-burden countries; people experiencing homelessness; those with HIV or other conditions that weaken the immune system.

What you can do

👁Get tested for TB if you are at high risk or have been in contact with someone with active TB

⚕️If diagnosed with latent TB, complete the full course of preventive treatment to avoid future disease

⚕️If active TB is suspected, see a provider immediately — it is treatable with antibiotics

Vaccine information

BCG vaccine is used in some countries but is not routinely recommended in the US. It provides partial protection in infants and children in high-burden settings.

Tier B — Annual report tracking

Based on NYSDOH annual communicable disease report. Threat level reflects 2024 case counts compared to the 5-year baseline.

Seasonality: year round

This information is for general public health awareness and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.