New Data Reveals Leicester’s Leading TB Incidence in England

Recently released figures indicate that Leicester recorded the highest incidence of tuberculosis (TB) in England over a three-year span. Within the Leicester city local authority district, the period leading up to 2023 saw 40.7 reported cases per 100,000 residents, significantly higher than England’s average of 8.5. During 2023 alone, Leicester registered 164 TB case reports, an increase from 140 in the preceding year. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) noted that the rise in cases affected both individuals born in the UK and those born elsewhere, with non-UK born individuals accounting for 80% of all reported cases in 2023. Data released by the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) on Thursday revealed an 11% rise in nationwide TB reports last year, climbing from 4,380 in 2022 to 4,855 in 2023. The agency further specified that the primary countries of origin for non-UK born TB cases included India, Pakistan, Nigeria, and Romania. Deborah Watson, who serves as the TB lead and a consultant in public health at UKHSA East Midlands, issued a statement advising: “If you have moved to England in the last five years from a country where TB is more common, please be aware of the symptoms of TB so you can get tested and treated through your GP surgery.” She added, “Not every persistent cough, along with a fever, is caused by flu or Covid-19.” Symptoms of TB include: The UKHSA stated that while the condition is treatable with an extended course of antibiotics, it can become severe, especially if left untreated. Rob Howard, director of public health at Leicester City Council, commented: “TB bacteria can lie dormant in the body for many years – something known as latent TB – without making you sick.” For updates, follow BBC Leicester on Facebook, X, or Instagram. Story ideas can be submitted to eastmidsnews@bbc.co.uk or via WhatsApp at 0808 100 2210. Copyright for this content is held by BBC, 2024. All rights are reserved. The BBC disclaims responsibility for the content of external sites. Further details on our approach to external linking are available.