TB Notifications in England Show Minimal Decrease
According to the most recent data from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), tuberculosis (TB) notifications in England have remained relatively stable in 2025, with a total of 5,424 cases reported compared to 5,487 in 2024, marking a slight decline of 1.1%. This ongoing public health issue is most common among those born outside the UK, as TB continues to disproportionately affect disadvantaged populations in urban areas.
Current Statistics and Trends
The notification rate for TB in England is now 9.4 per 100,000 individuals. This figure indicates a rise from the pre-pandemic level of 8.36 per 100,000 recorded in 2019, yet is still significantly lower than the peak in 2011, when the rate reached 15.6 per 100,000. As has been consistent in previous years, a substantial majority—81.6%—of TB notifications in 2025 were among individuals born outside the UK.
Geographically, the North East saw the largest percentage increase in TB notifications, with a 34.1% rise comprising 42 additional cases. Conversely, the West Midlands experienced the most notable decline, reporting 74 fewer cases, representing a decrease of 10.4%. Notably, notifications remained consistent across five out of nine UKHSA regions.
Risk Factors and Vulnerable Populations
Tuberculosis is closely associated with social deprivation and is particularly prevalent among individuals facing challenges like homelessness, substance dependency, and interactions with the criminal justice system. The impact of these factors underscores the importance of targeted public health interventions to mitigate TB’s spread within high-risk communities.
Expert Insight on TB Prevention
Dr. Esther Robinson, Head of the TB Unit at UKHSA, emphasised the seriousness of TB as a public health concern in England. She highlighted that TB is both preventable and treatable, urging individuals who have immigrated from regions with elevated TB rates to be vigilant about symptoms and seek testing through their general practitioners.
“Not every persistent cough, along with a fever, can be attributed to flu or COVID-19. A cough that typically produces mucus and lasts beyond three weeks may indicate TB or other health complications. It is crucial to consult your GP if you believe you may be at risk,” she stated.
Understanding Tuberculosis
Globally, TB remains the leading cause of mortality attributed to a single infectious agent, having overtaken COVID-19 in recent statistics. While TB primarily affects the lungs, it can also manifest in other parts of the body, presenting symptoms like swollen glands and joints. Key signs of TB include:
- A cough lasting longer than three weeks
- High fever
- Night sweats
- Loss of appetite
- Weight loss
Transmission occurs through close contact with individuals exhibiting active TB symptoms. The bacterial droplets released during coughing can lead to infection if inhaled repeatedly over time. Although TB is curable with a lengthy antibiotic regimen, untreated cases can lead to severe complications.
Future Initiatives and Plans
The UK government is in the process of creating a National Action Plan for TB to be implemented from 2026 to 2031. This initiative aims to refine prevention, detection, and control measures related to TB, with a particular focus on effective interventions and the reduction of health disparities.
Source: official statements, news agencies, and public reports.
https://www.gov.uk/government/news/tuberculosis-notifications-in-england-stabilise-in-2025
