Southwest Montana News

Officials from the Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS) are emphasizing tuberculosis prevention and treatment as World Tuberculosis Day approaches on Sunday, March 24, 2024. The initiative aims to raise awareness about the disease and available treatments.

“There’s been great progress to reduce tuberculosis disease in the last 20 years; however, more improvements could be made through increased education and awareness,” said Ryan Weight of the DPHHS Tuberculosis Program.

Tuberculosis is caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis bacteria, primarily affecting the lungs but capable of attacking other body parts such as kidneys, spine, and brain. Two conditions related to TB exist: latent TB infection (LTBI) and TB disease. Both can be treated; however, untreated LTBI may lead to active TB disease.

The United States reports approximately 8,000 cases of active TB annually. In Montana, an average of six cases have been reported each year over the past decade. This is a decrease from 13 cases per year in the previous decade. Nationally, about 530 deaths are attributed to TB each year with Montana's most recent death occurring in 2021.

TB spreads through air when a person with lung or throat TB coughs or speaks. Nearby individuals can inhale these bacteria and become infected.

In Montana during 2023, there were 288 diagnosed LTBI cases. People at higher risk include those exposed to TB, residents of TB-endemic countries for over a month, immunocompromised individuals or those on immunocompromising medications.

Those with risk factors should consult healthcare providers about testing options. Treatment for LTBI is available to prevent progression to active TB disease.

For further information on tuberculosis tests and educational resources, visit the DPHHS TB website.