Tuberculosis (TB), historically one of the most lethal infectious diseases, is experiencing a concerning resurgence across Europe. Recent data indicate a significant uptick in TB cases, particularly among vulnerable populations such as children. This trend poses a substantial challenge to public health efforts aimed at eradicating the disease.
Rising Incidence Among Children
A joint report by the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO) highlights a 10% increase in TB infections among children under 15 in the European region during 2023. Over 7,500 pediatric cases were reported, marking an increase of more than 650 cases compared to the previous year. Children under five now represent 4.3% of new and relapsed TB cases. Hans Henri P. Kluge, WHO Regional Director for Europe, emphasized that this surge underscores the fragility of progress made against this preventable and curable disease.
Country-Specific Increases
In Spain, TB cases have risen by 7% over the past year, with an incidence rate of 8.2 cases per 100,000 inhabitants, equating to approximately 4,000 new diagnoses annually. This increase contradicts the WHO’s global objective of reducing TB incidence. The Spanish Society of Pulmonology and Thoracic Surgery (SEPAR) emphasizes the urgent need to enhance detection methods and ensure access to rapid diagnostic tests, especially for vulnerable groups such as individuals with depression, drug users, and those experiencing social exclusion.
Similarly, Ireland reported 289 TB cases in 2024, with an incidence rate of 5.6 per 100,000 population. Despite significant progress, this figure falls short of the WHO’s End TB Strategy target of fewer than 139 cases by 2030. The persistence of TB in Ireland highlights the need for continued vigilance and targeted public health interventions.
Impact on Public Figures
The resurgence of TB has also affected public figures, bringing increased attention to the disease. Former Arsenal footballer Lucas Perez was diagnosed with active tuberculosis shortly after joining PSV Eindhoven. His diagnosis underscores that TB can impact individuals across all sectors of society and highlights the importance of awareness and early detection.
Challenges in TB Control
Despite previous successes in reducing TB incidence, several challenges threaten to undermine ongoing control efforts. The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted health services, diverting resources and delaying diagnoses and treatments for TB patients. Furthermore, the emergence of multidrug-resistant TB (MDR-TB) complicates treatment protocols and reduces success rates. In the European region, MDR-TB treatment success rates are approximately 57.2%, well below the WHO’s target of 90%.
Call for Immediate Action
Health authorities are calling for immediate and coordinated action to address the rising TB cases. Recommendations include:
- Enhanced Surveillance: Improving data collection and monitoring to identify and respond to outbreaks promptly.
- Improved Diagnostics: Ensuring access to rapid and accurate diagnostic tools, particularly for high-risk populations.
- Strengthened Treatment Programs: Addressing gaps in treatment, especially for MDR-TB, and ensuring patients complete their therapy to prevent further resistance.
- Public Awareness Campaigns: Educating communities about TB symptoms, transmission, and the importance of early medical intervention.
- Dr. Natasha Azzopardi-Muscat, Director of Country Health Policies and Systems at WHO/Europe, emphasized the need for sustained investment and collaboration to overcome these challenges and move towards TB elimination in the region.
Conclusion
The resurgence of tuberculosis in Europe serves as a stark reminder of the persistent threat posed by infectious diseases. While TB is preventable and curable, the recent increase in cases, particularly among children, highlights vulnerabilities in current public health strategies. Addressing these challenges requires immediate action, sustained investment, and international cooperation to prevent further setbacks and advance towards the goal of eliminating TB as a public health threat
