Cases of tuberculosis (TB) have seen a startling increase in San Luis Obispo County, with 10 active cases reported in 2023, marking a significant rise after years of single-digit case counts. Health officials have expressed concern that many of these cases have carried over into 2024.

According to Dr. Rick Rosen, the deputy health officer of San Luis Obispo County, TB treatment typically requires six to nine months. The majority of the reported cases are concentrated in northern San Luis Obispo County.

Health authorities have emphasized that individuals who come into contact with someone with active TB initially develop latent TB, a phase that shows no symptoms and cannot be transmitted to others. Dr. Rosen expressed worry about latent tuberculosis, stating that approximately 85% of TB cases in California stem from the reactivation of dormant TB.

As TB primarily spreads through coughing and sharing the same airspace with an infected individual, Dr. Rosen advised individuals who have recently traveled abroad to consider getting tested, as symptoms may not manifest immediately.

Dr. Brian Roberts, the medical director of Med Stop urgent care center in San Luis Obispo, highlighted that latent TB can remain dormant in the body for extended periods of time before being detected. He explained that the dormant bacteria can lay inactive in the lung for years or even decades. However, when the immune system weakens over time – either due to age or other underlying health conditions – the dormant TB can reactivate and lead to illness.

The local public health department offers testing and treatment options for TB. Individuals seeking more information can find resources on their website.

The significant increase in tuberculosis cases in San Luis Obispo County has raised concerns among health officials. With latent TB being a potential precursor to active cases, public awareness and timely testing are crucial in curbing the spread of this infectious disease.