Tuberculosis

Tuberculosis (TB) is an infectious disease caused by bacteria belonging to the Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex.

About nine million new cases of TB, and nearly two million deaths from TB, are estimated to occur around the world every year. TB is the leading cause of death among curable infectious diseases. The World Health Organization declared TB a global emergency in 1993.

TB usually causes disease in the lungs (pulmonary), but can also affect other parts of the body (extra-pulmonary). Only the pulmonary form of TB disease is infectious. Transmission occurs through coughing of infectious droplets, and usually requires prolonged close contact with an infectious case. TB is curable with a combination of specific antibiotics, but treatment must be continued for at least six months.

Over 8000 new cases of TB are currently reported each year in the United Kingdom. Most cases occur in major cities, particularly in London.

The Health Protection Agency aims to contribute to the elimination of TB in England through support to the National Health Service and the Department of Health in the key areas identified for controlling TB in the National Action Plan, Stopping Tuberculosis in England, published by the Chief Medical Officer in October 2004.

Through its TB Programme, the HPA co-ordinates its TB control activities, which are carried out by different parts of the organisation: the Centre for Infections, Local and Regional Services, the Regional Microbiology Network and the Centre for Emergency Preparedness and Response. The activities include local and national surveillance, laboratory diagnostic and reference services, disease control in the population, international partnership and leading edge research.