Submitted
Despite an ongoing tuberculosis (TB) outbreak in Wyandotte and Johnson counties, health officials say there is no indication of increased TB cases in Saline County.
According to the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE), the number of TB cases in Saline County remains consistent with annual trends, posing no elevated risk to the public.
In the past 12 months, the Saline County Health Department (SCHD) and KDHE have identified one active TB case earlier this year and 21 latent (inactive) cases—figures that align with what is typically seen in the area.
“While TB cases in Wyandotte and Johnson counties are getting attention, we want to assure our residents that what we’re seeing in Saline County is normal,” said Jason Tiller, Saline County Health Officer. “There is no immediate reason for concern. TB is preventable, treatable, and does not pose a general risk to the public.”
Tiller will discuss tuberculosis further on KINA at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, Feb. 1.
Understanding Tuberculosis
• Latent TB:The bacteria are present but inactive, meaning there are no symptoms and it cannot be spread to others. Without treatment, however, it could become active.
• Active TB:The immune system cannot stop the bacteria from multiplying, leading to symptoms such as a persistent cough, weight loss, night sweats, fever, and fatigue.
Tuberculosis does not spread easily and requires prolonged, close contact with an infected person. It cannot be transmitted through handshakes, shared objects, or casual interactions.
TB is curable with antibiotics, typically taken over six to nine months. Once treatment begins, individuals with active TB become non-contagious within days to weeks and can resume normal activities while completing their treatment.