Public Health Wales (PHW) say that tuberculosis (TB) is a "serious public health concern" as cases of the disease are on the rise. New figures from PHW show that cases rose by 14.5% in Wales last year, compared with 2023.
According to the latest Tuberculosis in Wales Annual Report, released on World TB Day on Monday (March 24), there were 95 newly diagnosed cases of TB reported in Wales in 2024, up from 83 cases in 2023. Cardiff and Vale University Health Board had the highest rates of TB within Wales, with an incidence rate of 5.0 per 100,000 population.
TB is described by the World Heath Organisation as the "world's deadliest infectious disease", with 1.25 million people dying of TB in 2023. PHW are appealing for the public to be aware of the signs and symptoms of the disease after a healthy 38-year-old lecturer had a "traumatic" experience battling TB over the last year.
Lizzy Willmington was initially diagnosed with chest infections but endured months of extreme fatigue, a persistent cough, and difficulty breathing before being diagnosed with TB. She said: "I was shocked but relieved when I finally had an answer. The treatment was tough, I lost weight, felt constantly exhausted, and had to take time off work. It affected my personal and professional life, the experience was traumatic, but I was lucky to have access to fantastic care and support.
"Many people aren’t aware that TB can remain dormant for years before becoming active. It’s crucial that people recognize the symptoms and seek help early." Stay informed on the latest health news by signing up to our newsletter here
Professor Meng Khaw, National Director of Health Protection and Screening Services at Public Health Wales, said: "TB is still present in our communities, and it remains a significant health challenge. The increase in TB cases in Wales, highlights the urgent need for strengthened prevention strategies and improved access to early diagnosis. By ensuring people receive timely treatment, we can protect our communities from this serious but preventable disease."
PHW is hosting the first-ever Wales World TB Day Symposium in Cardiff on Monday to discuss the problem. The conference will bring together healthcare professionals, patients and policymakers to drive progress in TB prevention, detection and treatment efforts.
What is tuberculosis?
TB is caused by bacteria (Mycobacterium tuberculosis) and it most often affects the lungs. TB is spread through the air when people with lung TB cough, sneeze or spit. A person needs to inhale only a few germs to become infected. In the Victorian era, TB was often called consumption and was a major cause of death in urban areas. It killed as many as one in seven people.
Symptoms of tuberculosis:
According to the NHS, symptoms of TB usually come on gradually.
Common symptoms include:
- a cough that lasts more than 3 weeks
- feeling tired or exhausted
- a high temperature or night sweats
- loss of appetite
- weight loss
- feeling generally unwell
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