Tuberculosis Cases in NYC On The Rise For The First Time In A Decade

Tuberculosis cases in New York City are rising for the first time in a decade, according to the New York City Health Department, the New York Daily News reported.

New data show that Tuberculosis cases increased 1 percent from the previous year to 656 cases in 2013. This follows an 83 percent decline in cases since 1992, the New York Daily News reported.

Tuberculosis is a serious disease caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis, which can be present as either infection or active disease. Tuberculosis infections mean that the bacteria is living in the body but not causing any symptoms. The disease is spread from person to person through the air, and usually affects the lungs.

"The increase is an indication of a slowing down in the decline of cases resulting from the changing patterns of [tuberculosis] in NYC," health department officials said in a statement.

They said the rise in tuberculosis cases could be from a misallocation of resources.

Health officials said the focus have been on controlling tuberculosis transmissions predominately in New York City residents born in the United States, in 2013. However, 84 percent of total tuberculosis cases in New York City were among individuals born outside of the United States.

"The burden of [tuberculosis] in NYC now disproportionately affects persons from countries with high TB incidence. Many are likely infected in their country of origin and developed TB after entering the US," Health Commissioner Dr. Mary Bassett said in a statement. "Certain chronic diseases can put individuals at increased risk for reactivated TB disease. It is important for healthcare providers to 'think TB' and test and treat persons who are at risk for TB infection and TB disease."

Health officials said that in addition, the rising diabetes epidemic and use of medications that can weaken the immune system may also contribute to new cases.

The Health Department is working with healthcare providers and the community to promote tuberculosis screening and introduce new technology for more efficient and effective treatment regimens.