TB cases down

Rates of TB are falling in England, according to figures published yesterday.

Last year some 6,520 people were diagnosed with the illness, according to the Public Health England figures. This was a 10% reduction on the 7,257 cases in 2013.

A similar reduction was seen in London, where the number of cases fell from 2,965 to 2,572.

Public Health England said the main reduction was among immigrants not born in the UK.

It says rates in England are still among the highest in western Europe.

Professor Paul Cosford, from the agency, said: “This is the third year in a row that we have seen a reduction in the number of TB cases in England, which is excellent news. This decrease is likely due to a number of factors, including changes in migration patterns, and the impact of pre-entry screening, in addition to interventions to improve the control of TB, both in England and abroad.

“TB remains one of the key priorities for PHE, and we are working with key partners to oversee the development of a stronger national approach to TB control."

He added: “Migrants on visas with a duration of six months or longer who are from countries with high rates of TB continue to be screened for active TB before they enter the UK.”

[Report]

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