In a recent government meeting, officials addressed a concerning rise in tuberculosis (TB) cases within the county, attributing the increase to several factors, including the lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic and the influx of refugees from countries where TB is more prevalent.

Health officials reported that in 2024, there have been nine newly diagnosed TB cases, with a total of 12 active cases currently being managed. Tragically, one of these cases has resulted in a death. The meeting highlighted the importance of monitoring and treating individuals with latent TB to prevent the disease from becoming active, particularly in light of compromised immune systems due to COVID-19 treatments.

The discussion emphasized the need for direct interaction between health staff and patients to ensure adherence to treatment regimens, which typically involve a combination of antibiotics taken over several months. Officials noted that while the refugee health program has increased the number of individuals requiring health assessments, most of the new TB cases are among long-time residents rather than refugees.

Additionally, the meeting touched on the broader implications of vaccination rates in the community. Officials expressed concern over a decline in vaccinations for preventable diseases, which has contributed to outbreaks of illnesses like measles and pertussis. They reported a robust public health initiative aimed at increasing vaccination rates among all age groups, particularly children, to mitigate the risk of future outbreaks.

The meeting concluded with a call for continued education and outreach to ensure that the community remains informed about the importance of vaccinations and the management of infectious diseases like TB.