Tuberculosis (TB) is on the rise in Arkansas for adult and pediatric populations. Arkansas Department of Health has recorded over 100 cases in the state as of Nov. 1, 2024, which is the first time in 15 years Arkansas has surpassed 100 TB cases in a year.
TB is an airborne infection caused by a bacterium called Mycobacterium tuberculosis. The bacteria usually attack the lungs, but TB bacteria can attack any part of the body, such as the kidney, spine, and brain. Not everyone infected with TB bacteria becomes sick. The disease can be fatal, though, if not treated properly.