Tuberculosis in Scotland: Cases rise by 40% in one year

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Cases of tuberculosis have risen by more than a third in the last year.The disease, most commonly associated with poverty, is at its highest level in seven years.In total there were 283 cases of TB reported to the Enhanced Surveillance of Mycobacterial Infections system in 2023, equating to an annual incidence of 5.2 cases per 100,000 population.This is a 40.8% increase compared to the previous year when there were 3.7 cases per 100,000 population.

It is the highest incidence reported in Scotland since 2017.TB is a bacterial infection which usually affects the lungs and is spread by breathing in bacteria that are coughed out by people with TB in their lungs.Get the latest news sent straight to your messages by joining our WhatsApp community today.You'll receive daily updates on breaking news as well as the top headlines across Scotland.No one will be able to see who is signed up and no one can send messages except the Daily Record team.All you have to do is click here if you're on mobile, select 'Join Community' and you're in!If you're on a desktop, simply scan the QR code above with your phone and click 'Join Community'.We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners.

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If you’re curious, you can read our Privacy Notice. When most people breathe in TB bacteria, the body’s immune system controls the bacteria and stops it from growing.However, people may become ill weeks, months, or even years after breathing in TB bacteria.Anyone can get TB, however, those most at risk are people who have lived outside of the