Authorities are advising individuals to be vigilant if they experience a cough persisting beyond three weeks, as it may indicate the return of a once-dreaded Victorian ailment.

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has observed a 13% rise in tuberculosis (TB) cases across England in 2024 compared to the previous year.

TB is a bacterial infection mainly targeting the lungs and transmitted through airborne particles. Although it was widespread during the Victorian period, effective vaccines and antibiotics had nearly eliminated it.

Nevertheless, in 2024, England recorded 5,480 TB cases, up from 4,850 in 2023. The illness remains most prevalent in metropolitan regions, especially London.

TB symptoms include a cough that lingers for over three weeks, fever, night sweats, diminished appetite, and unexpected weight loss.

Despite its potential fatality, TB is treatable if identified early and managed with a specific antibiotic regimen.

Early diagnosis is crucial for the best outcome.

Although TB incidence has remained low in England for many years, data from 2023 and 2024 indicates a reversal of the previous downward trend, with rates now exceeding pre-Covid levels.

In England, the majority of TB cases are found among people born outside the UK (81.5%). For those born within the UK (18.5%), studies have established a strong correlation between TB and socio-economic deprivation.

This includes individuals who have experienced homelessness, drug and alcohol addiction, or have had interactions with the criminal justice system.