Cases of TB in South West Continue to Rise - new figures for 2009 released

24 March 2010

Nationally the UK figures have also increased by 5.5%, from 8,679 reported in 2008 to 9,153 in 2009.

World TB day (24 March) aims to raise awareness of TB globally and the HPA and NHS South West would like to use this opportunity to remind the South West population about the signs and symptoms of the disease and make sure they recognise that TB is a curable disease with free treatment.

TB is spread from person to person when someone coughs or sneezes. Close and prolonged contact with someone with active TB in the lung is needed to be at risk of being infected.

Dr Isabel Oliver, HPA South West, Regional Director, said: "Although in the UK, the burden of TB infection remains highest in major urban areas like London, the increase in TB in the South West shows that we cannot afford be complacent. TB is a preventable and curable infection, but it can be fatal if prompt diagnosis and treatment are not given.

"The increase in the South West is mainly due to population change particularly in urban areas.

"People need to be aware of the main symptoms of TB, which include a fever and night sweats; a persistent cough; weight loss; and blood in your sputum (phlegm or spit). If you experience two or three of these symptoms for a period of more than three weeks, you should go to your GP."

Dr Gabriel Scally, South West Regional Director of Public Health, said: "World TB Day is an important date reminding us all of the importance of continued effort to control and prevent further cases of TB.

"Although the South West of England rates of TB are lower than the England average - we all need to be aware of the signs and symptoms of TB in order to diagnose and treat at the earliest opportunity.

"It is important that the general public understand that TB is curable with a six month course of antibiotics which MUST be completed in order to discourage recurrence of disease or drug resistance."

Last reviewed: 6 May 2010